Trains http://train.fotopic.net/ 131 rows en-gb 60 Bluebell Railway - Vintage Bus Running Day 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1781516.html <html><font face="Arial" size="1"> The Bluebell Railway Vintage Bus Running Day was held on 15 November 2009, with many buses visiting Sheffield Park or Kingscote. The teams organising the routes and the parking were kept very busy.<br> <b><font color="#00FF00">An update has also been made to the</font> <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/woodpax">Woodpax</a> <font color="#00FF00">collection.</font></font></html> Sunday 15 November 2009: <html><font face="Arial" size="1"> The Bluebell Railway Vintage Bus Running Day was held on 15 November 2009, with many buses visiting Sheffield Park or Kingscote. The teams organising the routes and the parking were kept very busy.<br> <b><font color="#00FF00">An update has also been made to the</font> <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/woodpax">Woodpax</a> <font color="#00FF00">collection.</font></font></html>

80151 leaves Kingscote with the Golden Arrow. 15.11.2009 592 steams north from Leamland Bridge. 15.11.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair arrives at Kingscote. 15.11.2009 A red flag is displayed at the Kingscote signal box. Following a widespread power failure trains were operating with a Pilot Man. 15.11.2009 The Pilot Man was Tim Baker, Station Master at Horsted Keynes and Commercial Director. It may not enhance your career if you steam clean him.... Kingscote 15.11.2009 Tim emerges from the cloud and arranges for the departure of the train. Kingscote 15.11.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair runs round at Kingscote. 15.11.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair approaches Kingscote. 15.11.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair poses at Kingscote. 15.11.2009 MXX314 at Kingscote. 15.11.2009 Sheffield Park 15.11.2009 Sheffield Park 15.11.2009 Kingscote 15.11.2009 Sheffield Park 15.11.2009 Kingscote 15.11.2009 RML2620 at Kingscote. 15.11.2009 Kingscote 15.11.2009 Sheffield Park 15.11.2009 Sheffield Park 15.11.2009 RM1397 at Sheffield Park. 15.11.2009 RM8 was one of the very first Routemasters. Kingscote 15.11.2009 RM8 was one of the very first Routemasters. Kingscote 15.11.2009 RM8 was one of the very first Routemasters. Kingscote 15.11.2009 RM8 was one of the very first Routemasters. Kingscote 15.11.2009 A Green Line coach at Sheffield Park. 15.11.2009 RF395 at Sheffield Park. 15.11.2009 A full house at Sheffield Park .15.11.2009 An old RT and a Green Line coach at Sheffield Park. 15.11.2009 An interesting conversion of CUV284C at Kingscote, but not to my personal taste. 15.11.2009 The current line up at the end of Sheffield Park Shed. 21C123, 65 and 541, all currently out of service. 15.11.2009 13236 outside Sheffield Park Shed. 15.11.2009 A selection of stalls were available at Sheffield Park. 15.11.2009

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]]> Sun Nov 15 2009 A photographic tour of the former East Grinstead (High Level) line - Ashurst Junction to Three Bridges http://train.fotopic.net/c1780335.html The main index page for the photographic tour of lines serving the former East Grinstead (High Level) Station. The lines closed in 1967 and this collection shows the environment in 2009. The area is part of the Forest Way and Worth Way Country Parks. Wednesday 1 January 2003: The main index page for the photographic tour of lines serving the former East Grinstead (High Level) Station. The lines closed in 1967 and this collection shows the environment in 2009. The area is part of the Forest Way and Worth Way Country Parks.

Collections covering lines serving the old East Grinstead (High Level) Station are available.

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]]> Wed Jan 1 2003 Oxted to East Grinstead - East Grinstead Station (Network Rail), formerly East Grinstead (Low Level) Station http://train.fotopic.net/c1780135.html <html><font face="Arial" size="1">Railways arrived at East Grinstead from the north relatively late, and it was not until 10 March 1884 that the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway Company opened the line that ran from Oxted to East Grinstead.</font> <font face="Arial" size="1">This collection covers the existing Network Rail station at East Grinstead, which was formerly known as East Grinstead (Low Level) Station. </font> <br><font face="Arial" size="1">The Bluebell Railway are also constructing a station at East Grinstead and photos of the works are <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinsteadstation">here</a>. Pictures of the <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinstead">Bluebell Railway Extension to East Grinstead</a> are in a separate collection.</font> <br><font face="Arial" size="1"> <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinsteadhighlev">East Grinstead (High Level) Station</a> (Closed) is featured in a photographic tour of the <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/p62077454.html">Ashurst Junction to Three Bridges line</a>.</font></html> Sunday 22 November 1998: <html><font face="Arial" size="1">Railways arrived at East Grinstead from the north relatively late, and it was not until 10 March 1884 that the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway Company opened the line that ran from Oxted to East Grinstead.</font> <font face="Arial" size="1">This collection covers the existing Network Rail station at East Grinstead, which was formerly known as East Grinstead (Low Level) Station. </font> <br><font face="Arial" size="1">The Bluebell Railway are also constructing a station at East Grinstead and photos of the works are <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinsteadstation">here</a>. Pictures of the <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinstead">Bluebell Railway Extension to East Grinstead</a> are in a separate collection.</font> <br><font face="Arial" size="1"> <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinsteadhighlev">East Grinstead (High Level) Station</a> (Closed) is featured in a photographic tour of the <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/p62077454.html">Ashurst Junction to Three Bridges line</a>.</font></html>

At the southern end of the line from Oxted and London is East Grinstead station. This old view looks north on 22.11.1998. The running in sign on the right says The same view north from East Grinstead station on 02.04.2007. The running in board has gone and the Bluebell Railway is no longer mentioned. Another view north from East Grinstead station, taken from the footbridge which now crosses the line where the original High Level station used to be sited. 26.07.2009 A view of the signals and points at the north end of East Grinstead station. 26.07.2009 The road bridge at the north end of East Grinstead station was under repair when this picture was taken on 26.07.2009 Looking south at East Grinstead station on 22.11.1998. The unit is 3455 and litter covers the tracks. A view south slightly further down East Grinstead platform on 02.04.2007. 377214 is about to leave for London, and 377130 has arrived in the adjacent platform. On 02.04.2007 the signs say it all, but the station name is slightly in front of the Bluebell sign. On 22.11.1998 the sign stood proud and unobstructed. East Grinstead on 22.11.1998, looking north from the southern end of the platform. Turning round, this is the view south on 22.11.1998. More or less the same view on 02.04.2007, but the increase in graffiti on the cabinet to the right illustrates the problem of operating a station in this location. The same view on 18.10.2008, after work on the Bluebell station site had commenced. Nearest the camera is a Network Rail engineering access, and beyond the access the black fence encloses the Bluebell site. A view south into the headshunt at East Grinstead on 02.04.2007. 377121 is stabled there. Note the points in a neutral position, not set for either route. Taken with a longer lens the parapet of Hill Place Viaduct can be seen in the distance, just to the left of the front of the train. 02.04.2007 In 2007 this was the clear land to the east of East Grinstead station, standing ready for the arrival of Bluebell. 02.04.2007. Looking into the headshunt with a longer lens in 2008 the black Network Rail security fence can be seen on the left with the Bluebell Station site hidden behind it. 18.10.2008 At the limit of the long lens I had available, this view shows the original Network Rail buffer stop, with the track curved towards the viaduct (sidings originally crossed the viaduct). Beyond is the blue security gate at the northern end of the viaduct, and the parapet can just be seen through the fence. Note the gap in the conductor rail just before the track curves, and the temporary buffer at the end of the line. 18.10.2008.

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]]> Sun Nov 22 1998 East Grinstead (High Level) line - Tour 4 - East Grinstead (High Level) Station (Closed) and parts of the adjacent Worth Way Country Park. http://train.fotopic.net/c1777559.html The first railway to reach East Grinstead was a branch line from Three Bridges which was constructed by the East Grinstead Railway Company and operated by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR). Work started on 22 November 1853 and the line opened on 9 July 1855, initially with Rowfant as the only intermediate station. Grange Road Station was added in March 1860. A second branch then continued to the east, constructed by the East Grinstead, Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells Railway Company. Work started on 18 July 1863 but unfortunately failed four official inspections. This delayed the opening until 1 October 1866, when the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) arranged to operate the line. The section through Groombridge to Tunbridge Wells is now part of the Spa Valley Railway and covered in a separate collection. Both lines closed on 1 January 1967, victims of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Worth Way Country Park to the west, and the Forest Way Country Park to the east. Saturday 4 January 2003: The first railway to reach East Grinstead was a branch line from Three Bridges which was constructed by the East Grinstead Railway Company and operated by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR). Work started on 22 November 1853 and the line opened on 9 July 1855, initially with Rowfant as the only intermediate station. Grange Road Station was added in March 1860. A second branch then continued to the east, constructed by the East Grinstead, Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells Railway Company. Work started on 18 July 1863 but unfortunately failed four official inspections. This delayed the opening until 1 October 1866, when the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) arranged to operate the line. The section through Groombridge to Tunbridge Wells is now part of the Spa Valley Railway and covered in a separate collection. Both lines closed on 1 January 1967, victims of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Worth Way Country Park to the west, and the Forest Way Country Park to the east.

Having climbed Brambletye Bank towards East Grinstead trains encountered two short tunnels, both of which have been totally erased from the landscape. The first, East Grinstead Number 2 tunnel, passed under the A22 road east of East Grinstead prior to the railway entering a cutting. The whole area has been reshaped and the site of the tunnel is buried under a roundabout which currently joins the A22 to Beeching Way. This view looks west down Beeching Way from a point adjacent to the roundabout. 13.09.2009 A second view looking west down Beeching Way. The old railway cutting was widened and used to form the new road which takes traffic on the A22 away from the narrow streets at the centre of East Grinstead. This has been of benefit to through traffic but the trackbed in the vicinity of the town was lost in the process. 13.09.2009 The final picture of Beeching Way looking west with a long lens. The original level of the railway cutting is at the bottom of the ramp down from the roundabout. The railway curved left through the cutting and then entered East Grinstead Number 1 tunnel, which was a short bore under the B2110 road. This tunnel has been totally dug out and replaced by a bridge for the road above. The bridge was apparently constructed before the tunnel was dug out beneath it and the cutting widened for the road. Both tunnels are reported to have been quite narrow. 13.09.2009 The western end of the A22 Beeching Way looking east. This area has also been completely reshaped by the new development but the railway originally served a large goods yard and goods shed sited in this area to the south of the running line. To the north of the running line a siding entered a timber yard. There has been so much construction and development in the area that it is hard to find any surviving relic of the railway, but just around the bend in Beeching Way (out of shot) a wall appears to be part of the old retaining wall that stood on the boundary of the land occupied by the railway. 26.07.2009 Looking west outside East Grinstead Station, there is virtually no trace of the High Level Station, but the four tracks and platforms were carried over Station Road on a wide bridge. This view west shows a surviving part of the western wall of the bridge. The levels have changed with the construction of new roads, but the tracks would have passed through the wooded area on the top of the wall. 26.07.2009 This old shot of East Grinstead (Low Level) station, taken in 1998, shows the scene behind the trees in the previous picture. East Grinstead (High Level) Station crossed the Low Level station at right angles where the wooden fence is on the left. On the right is the remains of a higher wall that once supported the bridge which carried four High Level platforms. Although the High Level Station has been totally demolished a footbridge in the foreground still carries pedestrians over the Low Level Station at the same point. This bridge is an access to the car park; the main station footbridge is in the background. 22.11.1998 A pedestrian bridge now crosses over the operational station at East Grinstead (the former Low Level station). Having crossed the railway this picture is taken standing in East Grinstead Station car park approximately at the western end of the old High Level platforms. A signal box was sited roughly where the car is parked. The single line to Three Bridges and a long siding curved away from the camera passing just to the right of the radio mast, and the double track to London curved right where the wooden gate is located in the fence (see next pictures). 26.07.2009 Moving closer to the site of the old junction, the line to Three Bridges passes to the right of the radio mast, and the double track to London curved right between the two signs in the foreground. The trees conceal the heavily overgrown cutting that curves north. 26.07.2009 Entering the cutting that carried the double track to London in a curve to the north. A path follows the route, but the summer undergrowth conceals all trace of the former railway. 26.07.2009 Looking west from a position just beyond the radio mast at the end of East Grinstead Station car park. The former track bed survives as the Worth Way, a leisure facility for walkers and cyclists, which follows the route of the old railway for part of it's length. Unfortunately there are now a number of obstructions on the original route to Three Bridges. 26.07.2009 West of East Grinstead the old track bed passes under Garden Wood Road, where a modern bridge is provided which clearly does not date from the operational days of the railway. This view looks west. 07.08.2009 Turning round at the same point as the previous picture this is the view back towards East Grinstead. 07.08.2009 Garden Wood Road Bridge looking east. It can be seen that the railway had a relatively steep climb into East Grinstead. This bridge suffers badly from graffiti, but it has been edited from the picture. 07.08.2009 Looking west from the bridge at Garden Wood Road towards Grange Road Station and Three Bridges. When the railway was operational the cutting sides would have been kept clear of trees and shrubs. 07.08.2009 There are two railway bridges in Imberhorne Lane, which sometimes causes confusion. This view looks west at the three arch bridge that served the Three Bridges route. This bridge has a rather odd stone and brick combination which suggests that it is not original. The brick section shows evidence of repairs and tie-rods. There is another large single arch bridge which takes the road over the line that ran south from East Grinstead, and which is now part of the Bluebell Railway. 07.08.2009 Imberhorne Lane Bridge (Three Bridges route) looking back east towards East Grinstead. 07.08.2009

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]]> Sat Jan 4 2003 Bluebell Railway - Giants of Steam 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1771797.html The Bluebell Railway Giants of Steam event was held on 23-25 October 2009. Friday 23 October 2009: The Bluebell Railway Giants of Steam event was held on 23-25 October 2009.

34059 in the cutting north of Horsted House Farm Bridge. 25.10.2009 Please note that this location is OUT OF BOUNDS to lineside permit holders. 1638 passes the PWay team north of Vaux End Bridge. 25.10.2009 Please note that this location is OUT OF BOUNDS to lineside permit holders. Always wear hi-viz when on or about the line. Never cross in front of an approaching train... Kingscote 23.10.2009 9017 steams north past Black Hut. In the distance is the southbound distant signal. 25.10.2009 Please note that this location is OUT OF BOUNDS to lineside permit holders. 80151 coasts through the temporary speed restriction south of West Hoathly tunnel. 25.10.2009 Please note that this location is OUT OF BOUNDS to lineside permit holders. 34059 rounds the bend beyond Horsted House Farm bridge. 25.10.2009 Please note that this location is OUT OF BOUNDS to lineside permit holders. 9017 steams north from Mill Place Bridge. 25.10.2009 34059 approaches Birch Farm foot crossing. 23.10.2009 1638 steams north from Leamland Bridge. 23.10.2009 80151 generates smoke effects as it leaves Kingscote. 25.10.2009 34059 leaves Sheffield Park at dusk. 23.10.2009 1638 arrives at Kingscote. 23.10.2009 Behind you......! Kingscote 23.10.2009 A very heavy shower sent the majority of photographers in the field sprinting for cover as 34059 approached New Road Bridge. 23.10.2009 80151 steams south towards Black Hut. 25.10.2009 Please note that this location is OUT OF BOUNDS to lineside permit holders. 9017 climbs north towards West Hoathly tunnel. 25.10.2009 Please note that this location is OUT OF BOUNDS to lineside permit holders. 9017 poses at Kingscote. 25.10.2009 672 Fenchurch steams north from Horsted Keynes whilst providing brake van rides. 25.10.2009 The sunlight catches the steam as 34059 leaves Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2009 672 Fenchurch was providing brake van rides down the Ardingly spur. 25.10.2009 Both northbound signals are cleared as 34059 and 672 Fenchurch line up, watched by a large crowd. 25.10.2009 The PWay team hard at work at Vaux End whilst everyone else was having fun. 25.10.2009 The PWay team hard at work at Vaux End whilst everyone else was having fun. 25.10.2009 The PWay team hard at work at Vaux End whilst everyone else was having fun. 25.10.2009 The PWay team hard at work at Vaux End whilst everyone else was having fun. 25.10.2009 Atlantic House was open to visitors. Some pictures are provided of current projects. 23.10.2009 Work has started on the braking system (the black components). Atlantic House 23.10.2009 Work has started on the braking system (the black components). Atlantic House 23.10.2009 The connecting rods awaiting final preparation. Atlantic House 23.10.2009 Some newly arrived castings. Atlantic House 23.10.2009 Some newly arrived castings. Atlantic House 23.10.2009 92240 was waiting to leave Platform 1 at Horsted Keynes with some vans. (OK, actually it was on display...) 23.10.2009 92240 and 75027 on display at Horsted Keynes. 23.10.2009 92240 on display at Horsted Keynes. 23.10.2009 The footplate of 92240. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2009 75027 on display at Horsted Keynes, with the inevitable barriers unfortunately precluding reasonable photography. 23.10.2009 Dealers had many items for sale around Horsted Keynes Station. 23.10.2009 Dealers had many items for sale around Horsted Keynes Station. 23.10.2009 The museum display at Horsted Keynes. 23.10.2009 The museum display at Horsted Keynes. 23.10.2009 The museum display at Horsted Keynes. 23.10.2009 The museum display at Horsted Keynes. 23.10.2009 The museum display at Horsted Keynes. 23.10.2009 The museum display at Horsted Keynes. 23.10.2009 Inside Pullman Car Doris. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2009 Inside Pullman Car Doris. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2009 Inside Pullman Car Doris. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2009 Inside Pullman Car Doris. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2009 Inside Pullman Car Doris. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2009 Stationary engines at Horsted Keynes 25.10.2009

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]]> Fri Oct 23 2009 East Grinstead (High Level) line - Tour 5 - Grange Road Station (Closed) and parts of the adjacent Worth Way Country Park. http://train.fotopic.net/c1770883.html The first railway to reach East Grinstead was a branch line from Three Bridges which was constructed by the East Grinstead Railway Company and operated by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway. Work started on 22 November 1853 and the line opened on 9 July 1855, initially with Rowfant as the only intermediate station. Grange Road Station was added in March 1860. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Worth Way Country Park. Sunday 5 January 2003: The first railway to reach East Grinstead was a branch line from Three Bridges which was constructed by the East Grinstead Railway Company and operated by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway. Work started on 22 November 1853 and the line opened on 9 July 1855, initially with Rowfant as the only intermediate station. Grange Road Station was added in March 1860. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Worth Way Country Park.

Grange Road Station has been erased from the landscape and replaced by a large housing estate and shops. In this view, looking west, trains ran (approximately) through the block of three shops in the distance and along the road towards the camera. A signal box stood roughly where the right hand of the three shops is sited. The white building on the right behind the bus shelter is The Royal Oak public house, shown on original maps of the railway station (see next picture). 18.10.2009 The Royal Oak public house, looking north. This area is known as Crawley Down, and for many years the station was called Grange Road for Crawley Down and Turners Hill. Like many rural stations the name did not actually reflect the position of the station, and unwary visitors for Turners Hill faced a long steep uphill walk to their destination. The name of the station was later shortened to Grange Road. The pub serves as a point of reference to locate the site of the station. A level crossing was positioned roughly where the camera is situated, with trains running left to right across the picture alongside the pub. The small Crawley Down signpost on the right of the picture is probably sited approximately within the track bed. 18.10.2009 Looking east, the two parked cars are more or less on the level crossing, with the road in the distance now covering the site of the single running line (on the left) and the goods yard (on the right). The station was behind the camera, separated from the goods yard by the level crossing. A footbridge was also provided adjacent to the level crossing, facilities that were perhaps generous given the usage. 18.10.2009 Looking east out of Old Station Close towards the new housing and the route of the old railway. Old Station Close occupies the former station forecourt and the site of Grange Road station itself, but there are no surviving signs of the station. The track bed has also been totally erased throughout the quite extensive housing estate. In more recent years greater emphasis has been put on safeguarding old track beds, and further north in the London suburbs some allegedly defunct routes are now important arteries for trams. 18.10.2009 An appropriate street name helps to locate the site of Grange Road Station.18.10.2009 West of the site of Grange Road Station a footpath leads through Old Station Close and subsequently out into countryside that was landscaped after the railway closed. There is no trace of the track bed left in this area. This view looks east up the footpath towards a gate leading to Old Station Close. 18.10.2009 Still looking east the position where the reshaped land enters the old railway cutting can be seen. There is a slight change in colour on the footpath, and a culvert discharges into the old railway drainage ditch (arrowed). 18.10.2009 Turning round and looking east the old track bed leads down through a cutting in the direction of Rowfant and Three Bridges. An overbridge is just coming into view (see next picture). 18.10.2009 A little further down the track a high overbridge takes the B2028 over the old railway cutting. This view looks west. 18.10.2009 Just east of the bridge a set of overgrown steps appear to lead up the steep northern embankment. These might have been an old railway access point, or possibly drainage from a culvert. 18.10.2009 The B2028 bridge looking east. The railway gradient at this point was quite steep. 18.10.2009 Slightly further from the bridge and still looking east the drainage ditches on both sides of the old single track bed can still be seen and are functional. 18.10.2009 Turning round and looking west at the same point, as the track bed bends away towards Rowfant. Soon the path emerges from the cutting and passes on to an embankment (see the Rowfant collection). 18.10.2009

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]]> Sun Jan 5 2003 Bluebell Railway - East Grinstead Station http://train.fotopic.net/c1767182.html <html><font face="Arial" size="1">The Bluebell Railway is currently constructing a new station at East Grinstead.&nbsp; This collection follows the progress of the works.</font> <br><font face="Arial" size="1">Pictures of the <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinstead">Bluebell Railway Extension to East Grinstead</a> are in a separate collection.&nbsp; Photos of <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinsteadnet">East Grinstead (Network Rail) Station</a> are also available.&nbsp; <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinsteadhighlev">East Grinstead (High Level) Station</a> (Closed) is featured in a photographic tour of the <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/p62077454.html">Ashurst Junction to Three Bridges line</a>. <br>Please note that the Bluebell Railway East Grinstead Station site is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. I have authority from the Bluebell Railway to display this collection. <br>&nbsp;</font></html> Saturday 17 January 2009: <html><font face="Arial" size="1">The Bluebell Railway is currently constructing a new station at East Grinstead.&nbsp; This collection follows the progress of the works.</font> <br><font face="Arial" size="1">Pictures of the <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinstead">Bluebell Railway Extension to East Grinstead</a> are in a separate collection.&nbsp; Photos of <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinsteadnet">East Grinstead (Network Rail) Station</a> are also available.&nbsp; <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinsteadhighlev">East Grinstead (High Level) Station</a> (Closed) is featured in a photographic tour of the <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/p62077454.html">Ashurst Junction to Three Bridges line</a>. <br>Please note that the Bluebell Railway East Grinstead Station site is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. I have authority from the Bluebell Railway to display this collection. <br>&nbsp;</font></html>

The East Grinstead Station site looking north from the northern end of Hill Place Viaduct. 10.10.2009 Looking south towards Hill Place Viaduct from East Grinstead Station. The track on the right of the camera is the completed link from Network Rail, and on the left is the track that will lead into the station. 10.10.2009 An earlier picture of the points at the northern end of the viaduct. The right hand line (looking south) is the completed spur from Network Rail and the left hand track will lead to the Bluebell Railway platform (plus the run-round loop). East Grinstead 17.01.2009. Taken in January 2009 this shot shows the (then) newly installed trap points preventing Network Rail trains entering the Bluebell Railway (unless they are expected.....) East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Looking south at the trap points that prevent access to the Bluebell Railway from Network Rail.10.10.2009 Turning round, this view looks north past the trap points towards Network Rail. East Grinstead Station 10.10.2009 A gate has now been constructed at the Network Rail boundary. There is a large red stop board on the Network Rail side of the gates, no doubt to frighten away stray EMUs.... East Grinstead Station 10.10.2009 The boundary designation notice adjacent to the gate. East Grinstead Station 10.10.2009 Taken on 26.07.2009 this shot shows the start of construction at East Grinstead. All that can be seen is some pipes and piles of earth, but in reality much work has taken place to install water and electricity. A start has also been made on footings for the platform. The ground is mainly rock, making the task particularly difficult. The East Grinstead Station site, with the position of the platform ramp indicated by the rising blockwork. Behind the wall is the Network Rail boundary. 10.10.2009 The East Grinstead Station site, looking north, with materials on the right and the rear blockwork wall of the platform on the left. 10.10.2009 Slightly further north on the East Grinstead Station site, still looking north. The Network Rail headshunt is behind the fence. 10.10.2009 Still looking north on the East Grinstead Station site, with the Bluebell Railway marquees in the background. 10.10.2009 New track awaiting installation at East Grinstead Station. 10.10.2009 Materials at East Grinstead Station. 10.10.2009 Materials at East Grinstead Station. 10.10.2009 A well protected JCB at East Grinstead Station. 10.10.2009 The reception tent at the East Grinstead Station open days in October 2009. I had to wait some time until the crowd cleared sufficiently to take this shot. 10.10.2009 Various displays were available to inform visitors about the project. East Grinstead Station 10.10.2009 Someone had parked RML2731 (complete with Bluebell Railway advert) on double yellow lines outside East Grinstead Station. Your Fixed Penalty Notice is in the post.... 10.10.2009 A vintage British Railways van on the East Grinstead Station site. 10.10.2009 In 2009 Bluebell installed new signs on the site of their new station at East Grinstead. There is nothing wrong with the printing; the sign was photographed at a slight angle. 26.07.2009

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]]> Sat Jan 17 2009 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - B473 http://train.fotopic.net/c1764876.html The overhaul of London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR), E4 class 0-6-2 tank, B473, is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This engine was formerly numbered 32473 and has also carried the name Birch Grove in the past. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection. Wednesday 4 July 2007: The overhaul of London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR), E4 class 0-6-2 tank, B473, is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This engine was formerly numbered 32473 and has also carried the name Birch Grove in the past. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection.

Having possibly had a final washout 32473 stands opposite Sheffield Park Shed with the smoke box door open. It is now out of service until overhaul. 10.05.2008 32473 is now in the workshops with it's overhaul in progress. 29.06.2008 32473 has been dismantled for overhaul. The engine is seen in BR Black before work started. Kingscote 14.10.2007 Work continues on B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 15.11.2009 Work continues on B473 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. Work continues on B473 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. Work continues on B473 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. Work continues on B473 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. Work continues on B473 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. Progress with B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 10.10.2009 Progress with B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 10.10.2009 Progress with B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 10.10.2009 Progress with B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 10.10.2009 Progress with B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 10.10.2009 Progress with B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 10.10.2009 Progress on B473 continues. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. Progress on B473 continues. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. Progress on B473 continues. The whole of the rear section of the engine has now been painted. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. B473 in Sheffield Park Workshops. It can be seen that the side tanks have been fitted. 12.09.2009 A rear view of B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 A super paint finish has already been achieved on some parts of B473, together with black and white lining. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The expertly painted black and white lining on B473 does not get there by magic. A gentleman does some very clever painting. His colleagues felt it was remarkable to catch him working, resulting in much mirth... Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 B473 Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 B473 Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 B473 Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 Someone had left a copy of Bluebell News dated Autumn 2003 on B473. The picture and the inset about the extension seemed particularly appropriate. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 Various parts from B473 await expert attention. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The boiler for B473 is now back in it's frames. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.08.2009 A rear view of B473, showing the new green livery. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.08.2009 A close up of the smokebox of B473 showing the new tubes. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.08.2009 A close up of one of the cylinder liners provided for B473, with the cylinder/valve asembly now in the frames. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.08.2009 Work has started on adding white and black lining to some parts of B473, prior to assembly. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.08.2009 The frames from B473 under overhaul in Sheffield Park Workshops. You will notice that they are now green rather than black. 27.06.2009 New tubes have been fitted in B473's boiler. Sheffield Park Workshops 27.06.2009 A gentleman was busy, working on the new tubes in B473's boiler. Sheffield Park Workshops 27.06.2009 A wider view of the workshops, with B473's boiler in the foreground, the frames behind the boiler (on the same road) and the H class frames on the left. Sheffield Park Workshops 27.06.2009 Work was in progress on the boiler from B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 17.06.2009 Work continues on the frames from B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 09.05.2009 The frames from B473 now occupy part of the space vacated by 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 23.04.2009 32473 has already been renumbered! It is reported that following overhaul it will be B473. Sheffield Park workshops. 23.04.2009 Work was continuing on the boiler from 32473. Sheffield Park Shed 21.02.2009 The boiler from 32473 outside Sheffield Park Shed after being removed from the frames. 16.08.2008 The frames from 32473 inside the workshops at Sheffield Park. 16.08.2008 A second shot of the frames from 32473 in the workshops at Sheffield Park on 16.08.2008. The award for Cleanest Engine was subject to a steward's enquiry... Dismantling of 32473 prior to overhaul continues. After assessment it has been decided that the new tender that has been acquired for the engine might be too large...... Sheffield Park shed 22.06.2008 32473 shortly after work to dismantle the engine started. The red notice in the cab reads Do Not Light Fire, a rather obvious instruction! Sheffield Park Shed 22.06.2008 32473 is now out of service and is seen here at Sheffield Park shed as it begins to be dismantled prior to overhaul. New shunter 13236 is also in shot. 08.06.2008 A very useful poster is on display which explains to visitors what is happening. Sheffield Park Workshops 27.06.2009. Click on the poster for a larger version.

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]]> Wed Jul 4 2007 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - 178 http://train.fotopic.net/c1764871.html The overhaul of South Eastern & Chatham Railway (SECR), Wainwright P Class tank, 178, is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection. Sunday 17 August 2008: The overhaul of South Eastern & Chatham Railway (SECR), Wainwright P Class tank, 178, is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection.

178, apparently christened Nettle, outside Sheffield Park Workshops. 12.09.2009 The wheels from 178 have been painted. Sheffield Park Workshops 15.11.2009 The wheels from 178 with the frames in the background. Sheffield Park Workshops 15.11.2009 The frames from 178. Sheffield Park Workshops 15.11.2009 The bunker of 178 with a fresh coat of paint. Sheffield Park Workshops 15.11.2009 The work on 1638 having been completed, the frames from 178 were moved over the wheel-drop. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The wheels from 178 are seen behind the frames having been removed. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The wheels from 178 are seen behind the frames having been removed. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The frames from 178 directly outside Sheffield Park Workshops. 10.10.2009 The boiler from 178 remains upside down at the rear of Sheffield Park Workshops whilst repairs continue. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The boiler from 178 inside Sheffield Park Workshops. It is upside down to facilitate repairs. 12.09.2009 Part of the smokebox for 178. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The tubeplate for 178. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 Dismantled P class, 178, outside Sheffield Park Shed 17.06.2009 A rare glimpse of the dismantled P class, 178, with the name Nettle on the side. Sheffield Park Shed 09.05.2009

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]]> Sun Aug 17 2008 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - 73082 Camelot http://train.fotopic.net/c1763726.html The overhaul of BR Standard 73082 Camelot is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection. Monday 7 March 2005: The overhaul of BR Standard 73082 Camelot is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection.

BR Standard 73082 Camelot has now been dismantled for overhaul. This shot was taken when it was outside the shed for cleaning. 16.10.2005 A second shot of BR Standard 73082 Camelot outside Sheffield Park Shed on 16.10.2005 The 73082 Camelot team. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The frames and cab from 73082 Camelot outside Sheffield Park Workshops. The cab roof has recently been painted. 23.10.2009 The cab roof of 73082 has just been painted. Sheffield Park Shed 10.10.2009 The frames from 73082 Camelot remain dismantled outside Sheffield Park Workshops. 27.09.2009 The frames and cab from 73082 Camelot. The boiler stands just to the left, out of shot, and is unchanged from earlier pictures. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The cab of 73082 Camelot has now been removed from the frames. Sheffield Park Shed 23.08.2009 The frames from 73082 Camelot, with the boiler behind. On the right is 178. Nearest the camera are replacement boiler tubes, which have since been installed in the boiler from B473. Sheffield Park Shed 17.06.2009 The frames from 73082 Camelot viewed from the Atlantic shed. Sheffield Park Shed 17.06.2009 The boiler from 73082 Camelot outside Sheffield Park shed. 24.04.2009 For a while the frames and tender for 73082 Camelot were moved into the back siding at Sheffield Park from their original position outside the shed. 09.04.2008 The frames and tender from 73082 Camelot under cover in Sheffield Park Shed. 25.10.2008 The boiler from 73082 Camelot looking rather less rusty than in previous months. Sheffield Park Shed 17.10.2008 The boiler from 73082 Camelot outside Sheffield Park Shed. 08.06.2008 The boiler from 73082 outside Sheffield Park Shed. 10.04.2008 The clearest shot that could be obtained of 73082 Camelot minus it's boiler. Sheffield Park Shed 23.02.2008 A gentleman was working on the boiler from 73082 Camelot. Sheffield Park Shed 23.02.2008 An unremarkable picture of Normandy and 32473, but in the background is 73082 Camelot, minus its boiler. Sheffield Park Shed 12.01.2008 BR Standard 73082 outside Sheffield Park Shed at dusk on 14.01.2007. A restricted view of BR Standard 73082 when in store prior to the start of the overhaul. Sheffield Park Shed 01.01.2007

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]]> Mon Mar 7 2005 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - 263 http://train.fotopic.net/c1763725.html The overhaul of South Eastern & Chatham Railway (SECR), Class H, 263 is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection. Sunday 26 March 2006: The overhaul of South Eastern & Chatham Railway (SECR), Class H, 263 is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection.

South Eastern & Chatham Railway, Class H, 263 on a rare movement outside the shed. Sheffield Park 11.08.2007. This engine is now dismantled and an overhaul is in progress. Work was continuing on the boiler from 263. Sheffield Park Workshops 15.11.2009 The frames from 263. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The boiler from 263. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The boiler from 263 with some scaffolding erected to facilitate work. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The boiler from 263. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The wheels from 263 have just been returned after re-profiling. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The boiler from 263 in Sheffield Park Workshops. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The frames from 263 in Sheffield Park Workshops. Note that the central area of the frames has been painted. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The boiler from 263. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The frames from 263. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The rear wheels of 263. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The frames and rear wheels of 263 in Sheffield Park Workshops. 23.08.2009 The boiler from 263 in Sheffield Park Workshops. 23.08.2009 Considerable work has been done on 263's rear wheels since they were last pictured at the founder's re-union. Sheffield Park Workshops 27.06.2009 The frames from South Eastern and Chatham Railway, H class, 263, currently occupy the space vacated by Sir Archibald Sinclair. Sheffield Park Workshops 17.06.2009 The wheels have been removed from the frame of 263 and are seen in the foreground. Sheffield Park Shed 09.05.2009 The boiler from H class 263 outside the works at Sheffield Park, with other parts of the dismantled engine behind. 23.04.2009 A closer view of the boiler from H class 263 outside Sheffield Park Workshops. 23.04.2009 The frames from H class 263 outside Sheffield Park Workshops. 23.04.2009 The frames from 263 were moved into Sheffield Park Workshops the following day. 24.04.2009 A useful poster is now on display which explain to visitors what is happening. Sheffield Park Workshops 27.06.2009 Click on the poster for a larger version. A shunt in the shed allowed this shot of South Eastern & Chatham Railway, Class H, 263. Sheffield Park 16.12.2007 South Eastern & Chatham Railway, Class H, 263 pictured during an shunt within the shed, which briefly created space for the shot. 14.01.2007 A second view of Class H, 263. 14.01.2007 South Eastern & Chatham Railway, Class H, 263 pictured inside Sheffield Park Shed on an earlier occasion on 01.01.2007, when the view was much more restricted.

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]]> Sun Mar 26 2006 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - 323 Bluebell http://train.fotopic.net/c1763723.html The overhaul of South Eastern & Chatham Railway (SECR), Wainwright P Class tank, 323 (formerly named Bluebell) is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection. Monday 3 February 2003: The overhaul of South Eastern & Chatham Railway (SECR), Wainwright P Class tank, 323 (formerly named Bluebell) is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection.

Before partial dismantling SECR Wainwright P-class tank 323 is seen in Sheffield Park Shed on 28.10.2003 323 (without wheels) outside Sheffield Park Workshops. 23.10.2009 The wheels from 323 have just returned after re-profiling. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009 323 (minus wheels) outside Sheffield Park Workshops. Restoration work to the bunker is obvious. 12.09.2009 323 has currently lost it's wheels. Personally I think the temporary replacement bogies are a little long and stick out either end.... Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 An earlier view of SECR Wainwright P-class tank 323, stored in Sheffield Park Shed, it's overhaul having been suspended. 22.06.2008 SECR Wainwright P-class tank 323, formerly Bluebell, pictured during a shunt in Sheffield Park Shed. 14.01.2007 SECR Wainwright P-class tank 323, formerly Bluebell, pictured in more limited space on 01.01.2007 A third view of 323 Bluebell, partially dismantled, inside Sheffield Park Shed. It's overhaul was suspended at the time. 01.01.2007

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]]> Mon Feb 3 2003 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - 847 http://train.fotopic.net/c1763721.html The overhaul of SR Maunsell S15, 847, is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection. Saturday 8 April 2006: The overhaul of SR Maunsell S15, 847, is in progress at Sheffield Park Workshops. The engine is currently dismantled. This collection shows scenes from the overhaul. The most recent pictures are at the start of the collection.

SR Maunsell S15 847 is under overhaul. It looked like this shortly before dismantling. Sheffield Park 04.06.2006 The frames, wheels and tender from 847 outside Sheffield Park Workshops 15.11.2009 The boiler from 847 in Sheffield Park Workshops 23.10.2009. Please note that for safety reasons the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. The frames, wheels and tender from 847 outside Sheffield Park Workshops. 27.09.2009 A close up of the wheels and frames from 847. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The tender from 847, with some obvious repairs. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 Work continues on the boiler for 847. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 Inside the boiler from 847. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 The boiler from 847 in Sheffield Park Workshops. 23.08.2009 A close-up of the work in progress on 847's boiler. Sheffield Park Workshops 23.08.2009 A shot of 847, with some repairs and painting on the tender evident. Sheffield Park Shed. 16.08.2009 The boiler from 847 remains at the back of Sheffield Park Workshops. 27.06.2009 The newly reassembled frames and tender for 847. It's boiler is currently in the workshops. Sheffield Park Shed 17.06.2009 Painting of the frames from 847 has continued. Sheffield Park shed 23.04.2009 The frames from 847 outside Sheffield Park Shed on 25.10.2008, with work obviously in progress. The best picture that could be obtained of the partially covered frames from 847. Sheffield Park Shed 17.10.2008 The boiler from 847 inside Sheffield Park Workshops. 08.06.2008 The boiler from 847 outside Sheffield Park Shed. 10.05.2008 In April 2008 the boiler from 847 had been moved out of Sheffield Park Workshops. 10.04.2008 The boiler from 847 inside the works at Sheffield Park. 23.02.2008 The boiler from 847 inside the works at Sheffield Park. 23.02.2008 The frames from 847. Sheffield Park Shed 23.02.2008 The frames from 847 with wheelsets in front. Sheffield Park Shed 23.02.2008 In May 2007 the frames for 847 had been painted and looked substantially better than a few months previously (the painted boiler is beyond). Sheffield Park Shed 08.05.2007 The frame for 847 outside Sheffield Park Shed. 25.02.2007 A second shot of the frame for 847 outside Sheffield Park Shed. 25.02.2007 The boiler from 847 outside Sheffield Park Shed. 25.02.2007 A second shot of 847's boiler outside Sheffield Park Shed. 25.02.2007 SR Maunsell S15 847 under overhaul. The wheels and frame can be seen with the boiler behind. Sheffield Park Shed 01.01.2007 A closer view of the newly repainted boiler from 847. Sheffield Park Shed 01.01.2007 In the latter part of October 2006 the boiler from 847 was removed from the frames. Sheffield Park Shed 27.10.2006 In October 2006 847 was moved outside Sheffield Park Shed and dismantling started. 13.10.2006

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]]> Sat Apr 8 2006 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - Sharpthorn http://train.fotopic.net/c1763305.html UNDER CONSTRUCTION Saturday 19 November 2005: UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Sharpthorn, used by the contractors J T Firbank to build what is now the Bluebell Railway. At the time this picture was taken the engine had just been externally refurbished. Horsted Keynes 12.08.2007 Sharpthorn in it's usual display position at the end of Platform 1 at Horsted Keynes. 12.08.2007 This picture of Sharpthorn with 672 Fenchurch shows just how small Sharpthorn actually is. Horsted Keynes 12.08.2007 Sharpthorn has received a new coat of paint. And very smart it looks too... Horsted Keynes 14.07.2007 Sharpthorn was used by the contractor J T Firbank to build the line, and is currently on display at Horsted Keynes. This picture was taken on 29.05.2006 Sharpthorn, used by the contractors J T Firbank to build what is now the Bluebell Railway. Horsted Keynes 19.11.2005 Sharpthorn on static display at Horsted Keynes 19.11.2005

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]]> Sat Nov 19 2005 Bluebell Railway - Woodpax HLF Project http://train.fotopic.net/c1756074.html <html> <font face="Arial" size="1">The Woodpax site forms the basis for Phase 3 of Operation Undercover, which will provide covered accomodation for up to 17 carriages, a new museum building, a new loco washout pit, and the repair and reconstruction of the platform buildings and canopy and provision of toilets on platform 2 at Sheffield Park. The total project cost is £3.9 million, of which £2.875 million is covered by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This collection will be regularly updated. Please note that the Woodpax site is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS except to authorised personnel.</font> <p><b><font face="Arial" size="1" color="#00FF00">Updated on 18 November 2009 with pictures of works on Platform 2 at Sheffield Park and additional shots in the vicinity of the River Ouse. </font> </b></p> <center><a href="http://images.fotopic.net/1yjs1b_dded61ba2af4de7834cf122e136ad53f.jpg"><img border="2"src="http://newimages.fotopic.net/?iid=1yjs29&noresize=1&nostamp=1&quality=100&p=ff930c168196df86ab672ae8facab11b"></a></center> </html> Saturday 12 September 2009: <html> <font face="Arial" size="1">The Woodpax site forms the basis for Phase 3 of Operation Undercover, which will provide covered accomodation for up to 17 carriages, a new museum building, a new loco washout pit, and the repair and reconstruction of the platform buildings and canopy and provision of toilets on platform 2 at Sheffield Park. The total project cost is _3.9 million, of which _2.875 million is covered by a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. This collection will be regularly updated. Please note that the Woodpax site is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS except to authorised personnel.</font> <p><b><font face="Arial" size="1" color="#00FF00">Updated on 18 November 2009 with pictures of works on Platform 2 at Sheffield Park and additional shots in the vicinity of the River Ouse. </font> </b></p> <center><a href="http://images.fotopic.net/1yjs1b_dded61ba2af4de7834cf122e136ad53f.jpg"><img border="2"src="http://newimages.fotopic.net/?iid=1yjs29&noresize=1&nostamp=1&quality=100&p=ff930c168196df86ab672ae8facab11b"></a></center> </html>

The old Isfield building on Platform 2 at Sheffield Park has now vanished from it's original position. 15.11.2009 As if by magic the Isfield building has moved south down Platform 2 at Sheffield Park although it is currently somewhat draughty having been detached from the wall of the main building. 15.11.2009 The main building on Platform 2 at Sheffield Park, with the Isfield building detached and the posters removed. 15.11.2009 The Woodpax site looking north on 15.11.2009 Looking south at the Woodpax site from the River Ouse bridge on 15.11.2009 Still looking south, a closer view of the Woodpax site as it is prepared for the arrival of the successful contractor. 15.11.2009 Looking south east at Sheffield Park Station from the Woodpax site. 15.11.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A closer view of the area where the demolished buildings stood as the site is prepared for the arrival of contractors. 15.11.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A general view of Sheffield Park Station, looking north, prior to the start of the works. 02.06.2007 A view north along Platform 2 at Sheffield Park Station, prior to the start of the works. The nearest building is the Bulleid Bookshop, which has since been demolished. 02.06.2007 Looking across to Platform 2 at Sheffield Park Station prior to the start of the works. The Bulleid Bookshop is nearest the camera, and to the right is the original building from Isfield Station, which housed the Museum. This building will be stored and re-erected later to serve as the replacement Bulleid Bookshop. 02.06.2007 The official closure of the old Museum building on Platform 2 at Sheffield Park Station. 12.09.2009 The Woodpax site viewed from the River Ouse bridge, following the demolition of some of the buildings. 23.10.2009 Moving to the north of Sheffield Park Station, this shot looks south into the area where trees and shrubs have been removed prior to the start of the works. 12.09.2009 Looking south towards Sheffield Park Station with the Woodpax site on the right. Beyond the wooden shed is a brick building which was about to be demolished, hence the presence of the rather large excavator. 12.09.2009 Moving the camera slightly to the right, the wooden building on the site is also to be demolished to make way for the new buildings. 12.09.2009 A later view taken on 10.10.2009, with the wooden shed in the process of being demolished. Down on the Woodpax site and looking south towards Sheffield Park Station. Steam rises gently into the sky as Fenchurch waits with the Observation Car. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A second view of Sheffield Park Station looking south from the Woodpax site. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Mechanical horses are currently parked on the Woodpax site, but will need to be relocated in the near future. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A view south along the Woodpax site towards the wooden shed that is to be demolished. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Turning round, this view looks north towards the River Ouse. The railway bridge over the river can be seen on the right, but the river bends sharply away from the camera following the line of trees in the background. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A second view north towards the River Ouse, taken from the railway embankment north of Sheffield Park Station. The river is in a cutting at this point and is concealed by the trees. 12.09.2009 You would have to be bats to live here... This is the temporary bat roost at the northern end of the site. Bats are already in residence having been moved from the wooden shed by a licensed Natural England handler. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. The side of the temporary bat roost viewed from the railway embankment. 15.11.2009 The rear of the temporary bat roost viewed from the railway embankment. 15.11.2009 This building, in a rather sad state of repair, stands near the bat roost. Information suggests that it was connected with water extraction from the river, and was probably a pump house. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Another view of the pump house, looking north, taken on 10.10.2009. The River Ouse bridge can be seen just to the right of the roof. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A further view of the pump house, this time looking south, with Sheffield Park Station in the distance. 10.10.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Venturing inside the pump house did not appear to be a good idea. At best it might be described as disorganised! 10.10.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Having explored further, it was established that the River Ouse water extraction facilities were still in place. The licence to extract water has lapsed, but with a spanner and some WD40 all the problems with supplying water to the locomotives could be solved....!! Just kidding! :-)) 10.10.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Looking west from the River Ouse bridge the shape of the square brick culvert that led to the pump house can be seen, covered in undergrowth. 15.11.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Looking across the River Ouse towards the point at which water was extracted from the river. 15.11.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. It is slightly obscured by the tree, but this shot shows the entrance to the culvert used to draw water from the River Ouse. A barrier behind the grating was raised to admit water.... and, no, I didn't try it! 15.11.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Turning the camera to the right (looking east) provides this unusual view of the River Ouse bridge, unfortunately rather obstructed by trees. 10.10.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Looking up, and north, at the River Ouse bridge from a slightly different angle. 15.11.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Viewed from the southern end of the River Ouse bridge it can be seen that the river turns sharply north and runs next to the railway for a short distance. 15.11.2009 Looking north along the River Ouse from the northern end of the railway bridge. This area will be untouched by the project and remain a natural habitat. The river is not always muddy. It was in flood following heavy rain. 15.11.2009 Turning round and looking south from the same point, towards the Woodpax site. 15.11.2009 A muddy track extends from the end of the hard standing on the main site, with the River Ouse behind the trees. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Looking back south, towards the hard standing, from the River Ouse. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Some old columns are currently stored on the hard standing. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. Looking south towards the wooden shed on the Woodpax site. A yellow line, added to the photograph, denotes the approximate boundary of Bluebell land (that land nearest the railway). 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. The northern end of the Woodpax shed. A yellow line, added to the photograph, denotes the approximate boundary of Bluebell land (that land nearest the railway). 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A closer view of the northern end of the Woodpax shed. A yellow line, added to the photograph, denotes the approximate boundary of Bluebell land (that land nearest the railway). 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A later view, taken on 10.10.2009. The excavator cometh, and if I was wooden shed I would be very afraid..... This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A second view of the wooden shed on 10.10.2009, with some obvious holes in the western wall. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A closer view of the wooden shed, as the work to demolish it continued. 10.10.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. The eastern side of the Woodpax shed. 27.09.2009. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS. A later view of the eastern side of the shed, taken on 10.10.2009, with some additional ventilation provided by the excavator. This area is OUT OF BOUNDS.

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]]> Sat Sep 12 2009 Bluebell Railway - Behind Bluebell 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1754927.html The Behind Bluebell Open Day was held on 12 September 2009. This collection shows service trains that ran during the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) plus scenes from the various displays and demonstrations open to visitors. Saturday 12 September 2009: The Behind Bluebell Open Day was held on 12 September 2009. This collection shows service trains that ran during the weekend (Saturday and Sunday) plus scenes from the various displays and demonstrations open to visitors.

9017 was in service with a Special train comprising the Directors Saloon. Kingscote 13.09.2009 592 passes the Kingscote Home signal with the Victorian coaches. 13.09.2009 9017 steams north from Poleay Bridge. 12.09.2009 9017 approaches a disused crossing north of Three Arch Bridge. 12.09.2009 80151 steams south past the Sheffield Park Inner Home signal. 12.09.2009 With water spraying from a hose, 9017 climbs away from Three Arch Bridge. 12.09.2009 592 steams north over Mill Place Bridge. 13.09.2009 9017 poses at Kingscote, with it's nameplates reattached. 13.09.2009 80151 departs south from Horsted Keynes, passing over New Road Bridge. 12.09.2009 9017 passes under Three Arch Bridge. 12.09.2009 80151 runs round at Kingscote. 12.09.2009 9017 steams north past the Sheffield Park Advance Starter. 12.09.2009 The nameplate reaffixed to 9017. 12.09.2009 80151 steams south from Kingscote. 13.09.2009 9017 heads south through Mill Place Wood with a Special train. 13.09.2009 9017 heads south through Mill Place Wood with a Special train. 13.09.2009 80151 starts away from Kingscote with a service train. 13.09.2009 9017 approaches Kingscote south signal box with a Special train. 13.09.2009 The crew of 9017 surrender the single line token at Kingscote. 13.09.2009 80151 simmers as it waits at Kingscote. 13.09.2009 80151 departs south past the Kingscote Home signal. 13.09.2009 The crew of 9017 entertain visitors at Kingscote. 13.09.2009 Awaiting the signal at Kingscote. 13.09.2009 Vintage car NG2921 outside Horsted Keynes Station. 12.09.2009 The PW team demonstrate their skills at Horsted Keynes. 12.09.2009 The PW team demonstrate their skills at Horsted Keynes. 12.09.2009 The PW team demonstrate their skills at Horsted Keynes. 12.09.2009 The PW team demonstrate their skills at Horsted Keynes. 12.09.2009 Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 Baxter, plus some green painted fittings for B473. Sheffield Park Workshops 12.09.2009 592 was in steam giving footplate visits, but there were so many children waiting in a queue the other side of the engine I left them to enjoy their visit... Sheffield Park Shed 12.09.2009 672 Fenchurch was being prepared for it's next duty. Sheffield Park Shed 12.09.2009 The Atlantic Shed, Sheffield Park 12.09.2009 The Atlantic Shed, Sheffield Park 12.09.2009 The Atlantic Shed, Sheffield Park 12.09.2009 The Atlantic Shed, Sheffield Park 12.09.2009 The Atlantic Shed, Sheffield Park 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. This is the interior of Christine (Car No.64). 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. This is the interior of Fingall. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. This is the interior of Lilian, named in honour of the wife of Bernard Holden, MBE, President BRPS. The coach was formerly Car No.76. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. This is Christine. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. Table settings on Fingall. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. A table setting on Christine. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. A sample menu. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. Even the clocks carry Pullman legends. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. A table setting on Christine, complete with tickets. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. Some of the lovely marquetry panelling in Fingall. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. A table setting in Lilian. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. The Car No.76 legend in Lilian. 12.09.2009 Pullmans on display at Sheffield Park. Behind the scenes. 12.09.2009

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]]> Sat Sep 12 2009 Bluebell Railway - Flavours from Sussex Food Fair 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1744680.html Pictures from the Flavours of Sussex Food Fair, which was held on 23 August 2009. This collection also includes service trains and a feature on the Bluebell Railway Band. Sunday 23 August 2009: Pictures from the Flavours of Sussex Food Fair, which was held on 23 August 2009. This collection also includes service trains and a feature on the Bluebell Railway Band.

34059 approaches Kingscote with a service train. 23.08.2009 9017 was on duty with the Golden Arrow and approaches Birch Farm foot crossing. 23.08.2009 592 leaves Sheffield Park station. 23.08.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair poses at Kingscote. 23.08.2009 592 outside Sheffield Park station. 23.08.2009 A member of the crew of 592 keeps look out as the engine steams south near Birch Farm. 23.08.2009 9017 was on duty with the Golden Arrow and approaches Birch Farm foot crossing. 23.08.2009 592 leaves Sheffield Park station. 23.08.2009 The crew of 592 surrender the single line token at Kingscote. 23.08.2009 592 arrives at Kingscote with a service train. 23.08.2009 9017 collects the single line token at it leaves Kingscote with the Golden Arrow. 23.08.2009 Handmade Delights from More Food Limited. (I recommend the fudge cake!) Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bookers Vineyard (Bolney Wine Estate). Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 For some reason the staff of the Co-op were throwing bottles of water into the air.... Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 The sign gives a clue! The Relish In Spice Co from Wicks Farm. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 The rather impressive trailer from Bookham Harrison. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Hepworth and Co, Brewers Ltd from Horsham. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Gran Stead's non-alcoholic drinks. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 The Spice Shelf with their chutneys and pickles. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Deerview Products. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Downsview Farmhouse had ice cream to die for. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 The ladies from Downview Farmhouse take a brief break. They ran out of some flavours of ice cream, it was so popular. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 The rather impressive trailer from Bookham Harrison. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Inside one of the display areas. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Sussex High Weald Dairy from Tremains Farm. Now that is local to the railway!! Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Two of the displays in the station field. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 It was difficult to get all the trading and display areas in shot, but this view captures some of them. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 The sign says it all. Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band. I am advised that the sign in the background referring to Wind Power is not a comment about the band.... Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 Bluebell Railway Band, Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009 An entrant for the Vintage and Classic Car event held the previous week?? :-) Horsted Keynes 23.08.2009

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]]> Sun Aug 23 2009 Bluebell Railway - Vintage Transport Weekend 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1740973.html The Bluebell Railway Vintage Transport Weekend was held on 15 and 16 August 2009. This is a very popular weekend, with a large number of visitors and a wide variety of attractions. Don't miss the 2010 event!! Saturday 15 August 2009: The Bluebell Railway Vintage Transport Weekend was held on 15 and 16 August 2009. This is a very popular weekend, with a large number of visitors and a wide variety of attractions. Don't miss the 2010 event!!

Councillor Dr Michael Turner (Deputy Mayor of Lewes), Councillor Margaret Baker (Mayor of Haywards Heath) and Councillor Lee Marmara (Mayor of East Grinstead) pose in Brush DS9145 after the judging (with thanks to the owner). Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 Councillor Lee Marmara (Mayor of East Grinstead), Councillor Margaret Baker (Mayor of Haywards Heath) and Councillor Dr Michael Turner (Deputy Mayor of Lewes) pause during the judging of the traction engines. Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 The winning item in the farm machinery category, a Lister, was a long vehicle, which was fortunate as it formed a background for a long line of judges. Bill Brophy (Chairman of the Bluebell Railway Trust), Val Wall (Bluebell Railway), Andrew Jarvis (Stagecoach Operations Director), Sarah Jarvis, Councillor Margaret Baker (Mayor of Haywards Heath), Anne Turner (Deputy Mayoress of Lewes), Councillor Dr Michael Turner (Deputy Mayor of Lewes), Dave Phillips (Bluebell Railway), Councillor Lee Marmara (Mayor of East Grinstead), Emma Marmara (Mayoress of East Grinstead), Tim Baker (Bluebell Railway Commercial Director), and last (but not least) Steve Everest (Event Organiser). Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 The judges pause during their assessment of the motor cycles. Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 Having looked at Stationary Engines, Traction Engines, and Motor Cycles, Steve Everest breaks the news that there are 200 vehicles and some farm machinery to judge..... Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 The judges took their task seriously, and discussed with this owner the extent of the work that had been carried out on his vehicle. There was subsequently a vote in each category. Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 The Southdown Cup (Best overall exhibit) was awarded to a Post Office van (pictured later) owned by Mike Hallett. The award was presented by Andrew Jarvis (Stagecoach Operations Director) and his wife Sarah Jarvis. The award was collected on Mike's behalf by his wife. Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 The Haywards Cup for best Traction and Steam Engine went to Gareth Jones for his Bishops Move vehicle (pictured later). The award was presented by Val Wall (Bluebell Railway) and Councillor Margaret Baker (Mayor of Haywards Heath). Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 Councillor Lee Marmara (Mayor of East Grinstead) and the Mayoress, Emma Marmara, present the Grinstead Cup to Nicholas Bentley for the best Classic and Vintage Car, an Aston Martin DB6. Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 Anne Turner (Deputy Mayoress of Lewes) and Councillor Dr Michael Turner (Deputy Mayor of Lewes) present the Lewes Cup for best Tractor or Farm Machinery to Clive Furminger for his Lister (pictured earlier). Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 Bill Brophy (Chairman of the Bluebell Railway Trust), presents the Bluebell Cup for best Motorbike to Stephen Elston. Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 Derek Carter received the London Area Cup for best Stationary Engine from Dave Philips (Bluebell Railway). Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 The eventual winner in the traction engine category (pictured before the result was known). Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 The Rolls Royce Handlye Special, which is based on a Rolls Royce Phantom II chassis. It is powered by a massive Rolls Royce Merlin Aero engine, something in the order of 26 litres. It was started up several times and appeared to have sufficient power to haul a service train!! However management abandoned the idea on being informed that it did about 3mpg!!! Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Austin Healey 3000 Mk1 BN7 Works rally car, SMO 744. Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 16.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Some of our guests attended in period costume. Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 The daily postal collection from Horsted Keynes? No, the winner of the Southdown Cup for Best Overall Exhibit. 16.08.2009 The judges particularly liked the display in the rear of the vehicle, which they felt reflected the overall effort that had been put into the appearance of the vehicle. Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 80151 departs from Kingscote during the Vintage Transport Weekend. 16.08.2009 34059 emerges from West Hoathly tunnel 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Thar' she blows...! Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 16.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Fenchurch was providing brake van rides down the Ardingly branch. Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Kingscote 16.08.2009 Kingscote 16.08.2009 Kingscote 16.08.2009 Kingscote 16.08.09 Kingscote 16.08.2009 Kingscote 16.08.2009 Kingscote 16.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 16.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009 Horsted Keynes 15.08.2009

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]]> Sat Aug 15 2009 Bluebell Railway - 50th Anniversary Appeal 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1737511.html The Bluebell Railway launched it's 50th Anniversary Appeal on 7 August 2009. A small selection of pictures from the event. Friday 7 August 2009: The Bluebell Railway launched it's 50th Anniversary Appeal on 7 August 2009. A small selection of pictures from the event.

Dame Vera Lynn. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Dame Vera Lynn with Nicholas Owen. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Nicholas Owen and Roger Kelly (Bluebell Railway Funding Director) pose at Horsted Keynes. 07.08.2009 Charles Hudson MBE, BRPS Trustee, poses with Councillor Ginnie Waddingham, latterly Mayor of East Grinstead. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Watched by Graham Flight (Chairman and Secretary Bluebell Railway plc), Dame Vera Lynn blows a whistle as a signal to release 50 balloons. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Dame Vera Lynn waves a green flag to start the 50th Anniversary Appeal. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Balloons emerge from the subway as Dame Vera Lynn waves the green flag to launch the 50th Anniversary Appeal. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Graham Flight (Chairman and Secretary Bluebell Railway plc) says a few words at the start of the event, watched by Roger Kelly (Funding Director) and Tim Baker (Commercial Director). 07.08.2009 Roger Kelly (Bluebell Railway Funding Director) explains the nature of the 50th Anniversary Appeal. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 An attentive crowd including Sir William McAlpine (second right) listens to the speeches. A charming lady (in the brown boots) was filming for ITV Meridian News and a suitable piece subsequently appeared in the evening news. 07.08.2009 Gordon Pettitt OBE (on the left) poses under a sign that was (nearly) appropriate to his former occupation. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Councillor Amanda Dean, Mayor of Lewes. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Councillor Lee Marmara, Mayor of East Grinstead and the Mayoress, Mrs Emma Marmara (centre). Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Chris Cooper, BRPS Trustee (left), with Councillor Margaret Baker, Mayor of Haywards Heath and David Cockram (right). Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Virginia Lewis Jones, Dame Vera Lynn, Avril Gaynor (Bluebell Railway Press Officer), Councilor Lee Marmara, Mayor of East Grinstead and the Mayoress, Mrs Emma Marmara. 07.08.2009 Dame Vera Lynn on the Southern Railway. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Nicholas Owen shares a lighter moment with some members of the Bluebell team. Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009 Distinguished guests were treated to a light lunch on a special run of the Golden Arrow, hauled by 592, seen here waiting to leave Horsted Keynes. 07.08.2009 While the distinguished guests enjoyed their lunch certain photographers got soggy photographing the departing train at Leamland Bridge in rather inclement weather. I know my place.... 07.08.2009 There are compensations to missing the Golden Arrow lunch. Whilst I was trying to find food 34059 gave a rather impressive steam display departing north from Leamland Bridge with a service train. 07.08.2009 9017 returns south towards Leamland Bridge with the other service train. 07.08.2009 Distinguished guests were given a tour of the East Grinstead Station site. 07.08.2009 Distinguished guests were given a tour of the East Grinstead Station site. 07.08.2009 The Hon. Lady (Judy) McAlpine talks to Sam Bee, Vice Chairman BRPS and Councillor Amanda Dean, Mayor of Lewes. East Grinstead 07.08.2009 The footings for the rear wall of the platform are now complete and can be seen on the left. Construction of blockwork to form the rear wall of the platform starts next week. East Grinstead 07.08.2009 The East Grinstead Station site looking south. A series of pictures follow with increasing zoom. 07.08.2009 The East Grinstead Station site looking south. 07.08.2009 The East Grinstead Station site looking south. 07.08.2009 The East Grinstead Station site looking south. 377127 stands in the Network Rail headshunt. 07.08.2009 The East Grinstead Station site looking south. 07.08.2009 The East Grinstead Station site looking south. 07.08.2009 OK chaps, how are we going to get the balloons out from under the canopy.... Horsted Keynes 07.08.2009

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]]> Fri Aug 7 2009 Bluebell Railway - Railway & Toy Collectors' Fair 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1731922.html The Bluebell Railway Toy and Collectors' Fair was held on 25 and 26 July 2009. I had not attended before, and did not realise the size of the event. Every part of Horsted Keynes Station was full of stalls, as was the adjacent field. The trains and the car park were packed. A popular event - don't miss the next one! Saturday 25 July 2009: The Bluebell Railway Toy and Collectors' Fair was held on 25 and 26 July 2009. I had not attended before, and did not realise the size of the event. Every part of Horsted Keynes Station was full of stalls, as was the adjacent field. The trains and the car park were packed. A popular event - don't miss the next one!

592 approaches Kingscote with the Golden Arrow. 26.07.2009 9017 arrives at Kingscote with a service train. 26.07.2009 Not our Freshfield, of course, but yours for £550..... Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 592 emerges from West Hoathly tunnel. 26.07.2009 9017 surrenders the single line token at Kingscote. 26.07.2009 592 steams north through West Hoathly. 26.07.2009 9017 runs round at Kingscote 26.07.2009 The Station Master during the LBSC era. Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 A footplate visit at Kingscote. 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 The trains were very busy, and the area allocated for car parking at Horsted Keynes was packed. Cars stretched as far as the eye could see. Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009 On hearing that Trotters Independent Traders were offering a Horsted Keynes running in board for sale (no questions asked), the Station Master instigated an immediate security patrol, and two men in a yellow Reliant Regal three-wheeler van were later ejected. Horsted Keynes 26.07.2009

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]]> Sat Jul 25 2009 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - 65 - A retirement tribute http://train.fotopic.net/c1722898.html 65 retired from service on 7 July 2009 following expiry of it's boiler certificate. A collection of photographs to mark it's retirement. Apologies for the lack of captions - I will get to them as soon as I can. Sunday 1 January 2006: 65 retired from service on 7 July 2009 following expiry of it's boiler certificate. A collection of photographs to mark it's retirement. Apologies for the lack of captions - I will get to them as soon as I can.

65 retired from service on 7 July 2009 following expiry of it's boiler certificate. A retirement tribute is available. Leamland Bridge 28.01.2007 21.02.2009 21.02.2009 22.03.2009 17.06.2009 20.12.2008 11.03.2007 20.12.2008 20.12.2008 12.08.2007 22.02.2009 22.03.2009 10.03.2007 11.06.2006 04.03.2006 21.12.2006 18.10.2008 21.02.2009 12.01.2008 25.10.2008 10.05.2006 20.12.2008 23.09.2007 21.12.2006 12.01.2008 10.05.2006 22.12.2007 10.05.2006 17.06.2009 28.01.2007 17.02.2008 12.01.2008 17.02.2008 10.02.2008 28.01.2007 23.02.2008 22.02.2009 24.02.2008 10.05.2006 17.02.2008 28.01.2007 28.01.2007 17.02.2008 22.03.2009 21.02.2009 03.02.2007 22.12.2007 28.01.2007 25.10.2008 10.03.2007

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]]> Sun Jan 1 2006 Bluebell Railway - Family Fun Weekends 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1718187.html The Bluebell Railway Family Fun Weekends 2009 were held on 20/21 and 27/28 June. This collection includes photos from the event and pictures of the service trains. Saturday 20 June 2009: The Bluebell Railway Family Fun Weekends 2009 were held on 20/21 and 27/28 June. This collection includes photos from the event and pictures of the service trains.

592 leaves Horsted Keynes with the four wheelers, Metropolitan coaches and Observation Car. Family Fun Weekend 28.06.2009 Totally innocent children were being confined in the stocks and pelted with wet sponges. Disgraceful! Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 Hazee gives a (successful) lesson in plate spinning. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 Prizes await their new owners. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 The winner of the fancy dress competition. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 The train service from Kingscote was somewhat reduced in size. 28.06.2009 The face painters were working overtime. Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 Fathers were on the receiving end of some wet sponges. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 Another example of the high quality face painting. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 Children were left in the stocks (parents usually collected them later...) Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 592 arrives at Kingscote with the four-wheelers, Metropolitan coaches, and the Observation Car. 28.06.2009 1638 steams north from Poleay Bridge with a service train. 27.06.2009 80151 leaves Kingscote with a service train. 28.06.2009 The crew of 592 surrender the single line token on arrival at Kingscote. 28.06.2009 1638 steams into Kingscote. 28.06.2009 592 poses at Kingscote. 28.06.2009 The refurbished running in board at Kingscote. A huge improvement. 28.06.2009 1638 leaves Horsted Keynes with a service train. 27.06.2009 592 runs round at Kingscote. 28.06.2009 1638 steams north past the Sheffield Park southbound bracket signal. 27.06.2009 80151 steams south into Horsted Keynes, passing the site of the new memorial garden in the background. 27.06.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair on shed at Sheffield Park. 27.06.2009 Stepney was on display in the dock at Sheffield Park. 27.06.2009 When you are soaking wet those sponges keep coming... Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 And coming.... Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 You have to find something to do whilst you are waiting for the fancy dress competition.... Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 The fancy dress competition. Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009. After cheering from parents that was judged to be somewhat biased the Squire decided that they would all win. A visitor meets one of Barry's puppets. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 The face painting team had a constant queue, and were turning out designs left right and centre. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 Hazee in mid-air! Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 A plate spinning lesson after the clown show. Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 I think this picture of Tim Baker deserves a caption competition.... Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 (Contributed) (1) Tim has yet to embrace new technology. (2) Tim directs the team in his usual calm and quiet manner.... Our highly efficient Commercial Director was actually selling half price Santa tickets to Family Fun Day visitors. What a bargain! Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 The crew in 592 as it leaves Kingscote. 28.06.2009 The crew on 592 as it steams north from Leamland Bridge. 28.06.2009 Additional staff have been employed to ensure that fishplates have been oiled. Kingscote 28.06.2009 The excitement of the day was too much for some visitors... Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 More sponges fly in the direction of parents. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 Smiles and laughter at Horsted Keynes. 27.06.2009 Fresh from the face painting, the next stop was the stocks. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 Punch and Judy performed at regular intervals. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 A very soggy customer in the stocks. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009 A large selection of photo boards were available. Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 Barry Black presents the magic show. Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 The side shows were very crowded. Horsted Keynes 28.06.2009 The roundabout at Horsted Keynes. 27.06.2009 The swings at Horsted Keynes. 27.06.2009 The roundabout at Sheffield Park. 27.06.2009 The popular sweet stall at Sheffield Park. 27.06.2009 Ray Sparks prepares to start the Punch and Judy show. Horsted Keynes 27.06.2009

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]]> Sat Jun 20 2009 Bluebell Railway - Grand Re-union 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1713887.html On Wednesday, 17 June, the four original students that thought up the idea of the Bluebell Railway in 1959, and were instrumental in organising the original meeting in Haywards Heath where the Bluebell Railway Preservation Society came into being, attended a grand re-union at Sheffield Park Station. The founder members and other invited guests toured Sheffield Park Shed, the Workshops, the Brighton Atlantic project, the Carriage and Wagon Works and the signal box at Horsted Keynes. Wednesday 17 June 2009: On Wednesday, 17 June, the four original students that thought up the idea of the Bluebell Railway in 1959, and were instrumental in organising the original meeting in Haywards Heath where the Bluebell Railway Preservation Society came into being, attended a grand re-union at Sheffield Park Station. The founder members and other invited guests toured Sheffield Park Shed, the Workshops, the Brighton Atlantic project, the Carriage and Wagon Works and the signal box at Horsted Keynes.

BRPS President, Bernard Holden MBE, poses with Alan Sturt, Chris Campbell, David Dallimore and Martin Eastland. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 The four original students who thought up the idea of the Bluebell Railway in 1959 pose in front of Bluebell's newest operational engine, 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. (Left to right) Martin Eastland, Alan Sturt, Chris Campbell and David Dallimore. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 BRPS President, Bernard Holden MBE, raises his bowler in salute as he poses with (left to right) Chris Campbell, David Dallimore, and Martin Eastland. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 BRPS President, Bernard Holden MBE, pictured in the Lounge Car. Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 BRPS President, Bernard Holden MBE (101 years young), poses with Martin Eastland. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 The four original students who thought up the idea of the Bluebell Railway in 1959 pose in front of Bluebell's newest operational engine, 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. (Left to right) Martin Eastland, Alan Sturt, Chris Campbell and David Dallimore. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 David Dallimore, Alan Sturt, Roy Watts (Chairman BRPS), Chris Campbell and Martin Eastland pose alongside 592 at the head of the special train. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 One of the four original students who thought up the idea of the Bluebell Railway in 1959, Martin Eastland, addresses the founder members. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 One of the four original students, Alan Sturt, says a few words. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009. Alan was determined to attend the reunion, and Bluebell is grateful for the special effort he made to be there. One of the four original students, David Dallimore, travelled from Canada for the occasion and is pictured speaking to the founder members. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 One of the four original students, Chris Campbell, speaks to the large group of assembled founder members. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 BBC South East News were recording and presenting live broadcasts throughout the day. Presenter Bryony Mansfield does a live piece for the lunchtime news, before entering the Lounge Car to interview the founder members on the news. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 The four founder members fresh from their live lunchtime BBC News broadcast. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 A second shot of Martin Eastland and Chris Campbell. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 Staff from the Locomotive Department rush to get steam up on 592 to allow a live BBC news broadcast. Sheffield Park Shed 17.06.2009 Steam drifts about as 592 poses with the newly painted 9017. Sheffield Park Shed 17.06.2009 The guests toured Sheffield Park Shed and Workshops to see the large amount of work being carried out. Roy Watts, Chairman BRPS, reviews progress on H class, 263. 17.06.2009 Stepney is back from the Ardingly Show, and is now facing south, like Fenchurch. Sheffield Park Shed 17.06.2009 Stepney poses in front of the water tower at Sheffield Park. 17.06.2009 Hired diesel shunter 13236 on shed at Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 Hired diesel shunter 13236 on shed at Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 The founder members visited the Brighton Atlantic Project and the four original students pose at the entrance to the shed. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 Roy Watts escorts David Dallimore and Alan Sturt. Brighton Atlantic Project, Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 A picture of what you are intending to build helps to maintain enthusiasm.... Brighton Atlantic Project, Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 This should come in handy...! Brighton Atlantic Project, Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 Brighton Atlantic Project, Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 A special train consisting of 592 and the Lounge Cars took the founder members for a trip from Sheffield Park to Kingscote and back, stopping at Horsted Keynes on the return journey. 17.06.2009 592 steams north from Poleay Bridge with the special train. 17.06.2009 The founder members were given a tour of the signal box and associated buildings at Horsted Keynes. The signalman kindly poses for the camera. 17.06.2009 The lever frame inside Horsted Keynes signal box looking north. 17.06.2009 The Horsted Keynes signal box diagram. 17.06.2009 Two of the token machines inside Horsted Keynes signal box. 17.06.2009 Horsted Keynes signal box. 17.06.2009 Horsted Keynes signal box is so busy that a second volunteer is on constant standby for immediate action. 17.06.2009 The relay room adjacent to Horsted Keynes signal box. 17.06.2009 The signalman's view from Horsted Keynes signal box as 65 steams south with the service train. 17.06.2009 Looking north from Horsted Keynes signal box. 17.06.2009 Looking north from Horsted Keynes signal box with a long lens. Some of the signals at the north end of the station can just be seen beyond the stock stored in the western sidings. 17.06.2009 With apologies for the window, a glimpse of the signalman's view to the south of the signal box. The Ardingly branch curves right behind the wagons, and the line from Sheffield Park runs past the signal. On the left is the end of the Carriage and Wagon works and the associated sidings. 17.06.2009 The founder members were given a tour of the Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 The Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 The Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 The Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 The Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 The Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 Inside the paint shop at the Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 The Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 The Carriage and Wagon Works, Horsted Keynes 17.06.2009 RML2731, from the Chairman's fleet, stands ready to provide a railway replacement service to East Grinstead. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009 Note the Bluebell Railway adverts on the side of RML2731. Sheffield Park 17.06.2009

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]]> Wed Jun 17 2009 East Grinstead (High Level) line - Tour 3 - Forest Row Station (Closed) and parts of the adjacent Forest Way Country Park. http://train.fotopic.net/c1697948.html Four lines served East Grinstead. The second branch to be built was to the east, constructed by the East Grinstead, Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells Railway Company. Work started on 18 July 1863 but unfortunately failed four official inspections. This delayed the opening until 1 October 1866, when the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) arranged to operate the line. The section through Groombridge to Tunbridge Wells is now part of the Spa Valley Railway and covered in a separate collection. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Forest Way Country Park. Friday 3 January 2003: Four lines served East Grinstead. The second branch to be built was to the east, constructed by the East Grinstead, Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells Railway Company. Work started on 18 July 1863 but unfortunately failed four official inspections. This delayed the opening until 1 October 1866, when the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) arranged to operate the line. The section through Groombridge to Tunbridge Wells is now part of the Spa Valley Railway and covered in a separate collection. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Forest Way Country Park.

After leaving Hartfield Station the old trackbed crosses country heading west towards the site of the old Forest Row Station. However east of the station an old bridge survives carrying a private road and public footpath north towards Ashdown House School and some other nearby properties. This view looks west. 09.05.2009 Looking west along the old track bed (now Forest Way footpath and cycle route) from the top of Ashdown House Bridge. 09.05.2009 Ashdown House Bridge looking east towards Hartfield Station (which is a long way away). The bridges were constructed for double track (via individual arches) but only a single track was ever provided.09.05.2009 Looking east from the top of Ashdown House Bridge. Although the trees provide a pleasant country atmosphere, many of the views that would have been available when the trains were running are obstructed by the significant growth of trees and shrubs after the line closed. 09.05.2009 Looking north over Ashdown House Bridge. The road is not a through route and gives access only to nearby properties. 09.05.2009 The reverse of the previous view looking south over Ashdown House Bridge. 09.05.2009 Continuing west, the old track bed passes through a cutting which leads to another surviving bridge which carries a private road giving access to Emerson college and other properties. This view looks west. 10.05.2009 Looking west towards Forest Row from the top of Emerson College Bridge. 10.05.2009 Emerson College Bridge looking east in the direction of Hartfield. 10.05.2009 Looking east from the top of Emerson College Bridge, but the view is obstructed by trees. 10.05.2009 The top of Emerson College Bridge, looking north. The railway was not generous with the width of bridges in this area, but when constructed they allowed for horses and carts. 10.05.2009 Emerson College Bridge, looking north. 10.05.2009 The eastern borders of the old Forest Row Station now just look like a country path. This view looks east back towards Hartfield Station, which is a considerable distance away. 18.10.2009 Still looking east at Forest Row the sign confirms the status of the old railway as Forest Row Country Park, but the path widens towards the camera. This is actually the junction at the eastern end of the station as the track opened out to double track and a line led off to a goods yard. 18.10.2009 Turning round and looking west towards the site of Forest Row Station. The double tracked station was directly ahead, part of the site being occupied by the building with a green roof. The junction to the goods yard ran off to the left (to the right of the sign with a blue poster). 18.10.2009 A closer view of the entrance to the goods yard at Forest Row Station. There was a bridge at the eastern end of the station but it is quite difficult to see in the trees. The parapets are arrowed. The entrance to the goods yard was over the bridge. There was a large brick goods shed and one other siding to the south, but this area is now occupied by a large modern industrial unit. 18.10.2009 The bridge at the eastern end of Forest Row Station looking north. There is virtually no headroom under the bridge and it's purpose is not clear. Information would be welcomed. 18.10.2009 The track bed leading into the site of Forest Row Station, looking west. The building directly in front of the camera is built on the double track of the station and the ramp on the left appears to be part of the westbound platform. Forest Row had a passing loop via the eastbound platform and a footbridge, which were provided in 1897. In latter years demand justified extending trains from East Grinstead to Forest Row where they terminated to serve the growing town. Closing the rail connection to this area was probably unwise but forward planning was not a strong point in the 1960s. 18.10.2009 On the northern side of the building in the previous picture a small part of the eastbound platform survives adjacent to a footpath. The remainer of the station (west of this point) has been levelled and the adjacent area is now occupied by a waste transfer site. So much more useful than a railway station.... 18.10.2009 Moving to the western end of the Forest Row Station site and looking east, the Forest Way path and cycle track can be seen heading east between the waste transfer site and the back of the industrial unit built on part of the old goods yard. This is not the most scenic part of the route. The other building in shot is the community Fire Station (there is a clue on the door...) 09.05.2009 A social club acquired the site after the railway closed, and moving the camera to the left brings their building into shot. Much of the old goods yard and station forecourt is a mass of tarmac. Buses once terminated here in order to serve the station. Behind the camera is an industrial estate (not pictured). 09.05.2009 A further shot of the social club built on the Forest Row Station site, looking north, together with the associated car park. A veterinary surgery (not pictured) is also located on the track bed to the left (west) of this building. 09.05.2009 Enthusiasts who like disused stations will not enjoy Forest Row, the area having been redeveloped. However the old coal office in the station forecourt survives as The Riverview Cafe. 18.10.2009 West of Forest Row Station the railway left the town on an embankment which still survives and can be seen on the left. This view looks west. 18.10.2009 Turning round this view looks east towards Forest Row Station with the embankment on the right. 18.10.2009 West of Forest Row the railway crossed the busy A22 on a bridge. It is no surprise that the bridge at this location has been demolished and the embankment cut back away from the road. Users of the Forest Way path are provided with a rather amusing traffic light controlled crossing that even has provision (and symbols) for horse riders! This view looks west towards the western embankment. 18.10.2009 Looking east across the A22 towards the overgrown embankment that leads east towards Forest Row Station (behind the traffic lights). The road is very busy and this crossing is much needed. 18.10.2009 One of the ornate signposts that are situated at intervals along the path. This one is on the western side of the A22 road crossing. 18.10.2009 Looking west up the old track bed that climbs up towards East Grinstead. When the railway was open this long ascent was called Brambletye Bank. 18.10.2009

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]]> Fri Jan 3 2003 Bluebell Railway - Southern at War 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1694983.html Pictures of the Bluebell Railway Southern at War event held on 9 and 10 May 2009. Remembering the late Simon Baker, Trustee, Director, Membership Secretary, Station Master Horsted Keynes and member of the "Southern at War" sub-committee. We also remember, with respect, the late Pat Howard-Tricker, and thank her husband Russell for his continuing contribution to the event over the weekend. Saturday 9 May 2009: Pictures of the Bluebell Railway Southern at War event held on 9 and 10 May 2009. Remembering the late Simon Baker, Trustee, Director, Membership Secretary, Station Master Horsted Keynes and member of the "Southern at War" sub-committee. We also remember, with respect, the late Pat Howard-Tricker, and thank her husband Russell for his continuing contribution to the event over the weekend.

Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota fly-past in honour of the late Simon Baker, Station Master, Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota fly-past at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota fly-past at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota fly-past at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota fly-past at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Dakota fly-past at Horsted Keynes, with a crow flying the Red Arrows well known cross-over movement! 09.05.2009 80151 approaches Horsted Keynes with the down Pullman. 10.05.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams north from West Hoathly tunnel. 10.05.2009 1638 arrives at Horsted Keynes with a wartime train. 09.05.2009 80151 steams south over West Hoathly foot crossing. 10.05.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair departs north from Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 1638 leaves Horsted Keynes with a service train. 09.05.2009 Viv the Spiv is arrested.... again! Horsted Keynes 10.05.2009 The Military Police are known for their friendly, helpful demeanour (I think).... Kingscote 09.05.2009 There can be distractions on sentry duty. Horsted Keynes 09.05.2009 We have had reports of unauthorised photography. See if you can see anyone taking pictures down there. Horsted Keynes 10.05.2009 Multi-service cooperation at the Auxiliary Fire Station, Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 The assembled troops from various units at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 Viv the Spiv checks his supply of nylons and watches. Horsted Keynes. 10.05.2009 Having been told that the Buffet had run out of hot food a soldier is treated for severe shock.... Kingscote 10.05.2009 Watching the world go by.... Kingscote 09.05.2009 The Home Guard at Horsted Keynes were ready for anything... 09.05.2009 A smart turn-out in front of the armoured car. Horsted Keynes 09.05.2009 The Ministry of Food Advice Service. Horsted Keynes 10.05.2009 German spies are everywhere.... Horsted Keynes 10.05.2009 A spy is removed from the train at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 A spy is removed to the Guard Room at Horsted Keynes to await the Military Police. 10.05.2009 The Military Police question a spy at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 An elegant group at Horsted Keynes. 10.05.2009 Doctor, nanny and child. Horsted Keynes 10.05.2009 The Navy and police service outside Horsted Keynes. 10.05.2009 Excuse me guv; want to buy a decent watch? Horsted Keynes 09.05.2009 Refreshments were served at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 A wartime group at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 There was very strict enforcement of the parking ban at Kingscote. Machine guns fired on any approaching car. 09.05.2009 Wish me luck as you wave me goodbye. Horsted Keynes 09.05.2009 The Comfort Kitchen at Kingscote. 09.05.2009 An assembled group at... Guess where? 09.05.2009 Wartime travel can involve a lot of standing about. Horsted Keynes 10.05.2009 A lady poses beside MG ESP509. Horsted Keynes 10.05.2009 The signals tent at Kingscote. No responsibility is accepted for the washing on display. 10.05.2009 There had been some bombing at Kingscote. Apparently PW had been delegated to defuse it (they get all the interesting jobs...) 09.05.2009 A smart wartime party taking a break at Kingscote. 10.05.2009 On guard at Horsted Keynes. 10.05.2009 Senior officers inspect MG ESP509. Horsted Keynes 10.05.2009 The Kingscote Temporary Post Office. 09.05.2009 The Field Ambulance Station at Kingscote. 09.05.2009 The Fire Brigade take a break at Horsted Keynes. 09.05.2009 Viv the Spiv had obtained a sample of a bunkerbusting bomb to help to clear the Imberhorne Lane tip, but on first inspection it appeared rather smaller than expected. Horsted Keynes 09.05.2009 Military motor cycle JYR649 at Horsted Keynes. 10.05.2009

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]]> Sat May 9 2009 Bluebell Railway - Spring Specials 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1690527.html Pictures of the Bluebell Railway Spring Specials. A small engine plus the Observation Car gives good views of the spring flowers. Monday 20 April 2009: Pictures of the Bluebell Railway Spring Specials. A small engine plus the Observation Car gives good views of the spring flowers.

672 Fenchurch passes the Kingscote Advance Starter. 29.04.2009 672 Fenchurch and the Observation Car at Leamland Bridge. 29.04.2009 672 Fenchurch steams south from Ketches Halt as the crew look out. 23.04.2009 592 arrives at Kingscote with the Observation Car on a Spring Special. 24.04.2009 672 Fenchurch steams south from Tremains Foot Crossing with a Spring Special. 23.04.2009 672 Fenchurch pauses beside the signal box at Kingscote. 29.04.2009 672 Fenchurch steams south from Ketches Halt with a Spring Special on St George's Day (hence the red crosses on the head code). 23.04.2009 672 Fenchurch steams away from Leamland Bridge with a Spring Special. 29.04.2009 672 Fenchurch leaves Kingscote with a Spring Special. 23.04.2009 The signalman watches as, in the distance, 672 Fenchurch leaves Kingscote. 29.04.2009 672 Fenchurch collects the single line token from the Kingscote signalman. 29.04.2009 672 Fenchurch hauls the Observation Car north through the site of West Hoathly station. 23.04.2009 672 Fenchurch arrives at Horsted Keynes. 29.04.2009 672 Fenchurch steams north under Leamland Bridge. 29.04.2009 592 steams north towards Three Arch Bridge with a Spring Special. 24.04.2009 672 Fenchurch arrives at Kingscote. 29.04.2009 672 Fenchurch runs round at Sheffield Park. 23.04.2009 592 steams north towards Three Arch Bridge with a Spring Special. 24.04.2009 The special headcodes on 672 Fenchurch for St George's day. 23.04.2009

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]]> Mon Apr 20 2009 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair http://train.fotopic.net/c1687228.html Photos of 34059, Sir Archibald Sinclair, taken on 23, 24 and 26 April, including the naming ceremony. Thursday 23 April 2009: Photos of 34059, Sir Archibald Sinclair, taken on 23, 24 and 26 April, including the naming ceremony.

Spring lambs run in fear as the newly rebuilt 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair crosses Poleay Bridge. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair climbs Freshfield Bank. 26.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair approaches Birch Farm Foot Crossing. 26.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair crosses Waterworks Bridge with a northbound service. 26.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams north round the curve from Ketches Halt. 26.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams away from Waterworks Bridge. 26.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair crosses Poleay Bridge with the Pullman. Notice the three tiny lambs running away from the fence. 24.04.2009 Distinguished guests pose after the naming ceremony. Father Dr John Twisleton (Rector of St Giles Church, Horsted Keynes and Chaplain to the BRPS), Roy Watts (Chairman BRPS), Graham Flight (Chairman and Secretary, Bluebell Railway plc), Sally Cruse, Viscount Thurso, Viscountess Thurso, Councillor Ginnie Waddingham (Mayor of East Grinstead) and Roger Cruse (Chairman of the Bluebell Railway Battle of Britain Locomotive Group). Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair poses at Kingscote. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair rounds the curve from Sloop Bridge. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair halts adjacent to Kingscote south signalbox, as the signalman looks on. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair at Horsted Keynes after the naming ceremony. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair passes the southbound bracket signal as it leaves Sheffield Park. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair runs round at Kingscote. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams north from Sloop Bridge. 24.04.2009 Viscount Thurso addresses the crowd at Horsted Keynes, watched by Roy Watts, Father Dr John Twisleton, and Roger Cruse. 24.04.2009 Viscount Thurso addresses the crowd at Horsted Keynes. 24.04.2009 Viscount Thurso addresses the crowd at Horsted Keynes. On the left are Roger Cruse and Graham Flight. 24.04.2009 Watched by Father Dr John Twisleton (Rector of St Giles Church, Horsted Keynes and Chaplain to the BRPS), Viscount Thurso unveils the name plate and crest on 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 24.04.2009 Viscount Thurso stands aside to admire the newly revealed name plate and crest on 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair is blessed by Father Dr John Twisleton (Rector of St Giles Church, Horsted Keynes and Chaplain to the BRPS). 24.04.2009 Roy Watts, Chairman BRPS, says a few words. Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 Roger Cruse, Chairman of the Bluebell Railway Battle of Britain Locomotive Group, addresses the crowd. Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 Richard Green presents Viscount Thurso with print number 1/450 of his Limited Edition illustration of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 24.04.2009 Viscount Thurso and Richard Green display the print of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 24.04.2009 The distinguished guests toast 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 24.04.2009 The distinguished guests toast 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 24.04.2009 Sally Cruse (assisted by Roy Watts) prepares to break a bottle of champagne on the buffer beam of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair as her husband watches in the background. 24.04.2009 Father Dr John Twisleton, Graham Flight, Viscount Thurso, Roger Cruse and Roy Watts pose on the front of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 24.04.2009 Viscount Thurso inspects 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair at Horsted Keynes. 24.04.2009 The crew of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair at the naming ceremony. Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 A member of the crew of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair enjoys the occasion. 24.04.2009 Taking water at Sheffield Park. 24.04.2009 The Mayor of East Grinstead, Councillor Ginnie Waddingham, takes the controls of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair at Kingscote. 24.04.2009 The Bluebell has charming staff to look after the guests on the Pullman. Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 John Fry, Chairman, Bulleid Society (second right) watches the ceremony. Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 The Mayor of East Grinstead, Councillor Ginnie Waddingham, watches events. On the left (dark jacket) is Charles Hudson MBE, BPRS Trustee. Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 A scottish piper played at the naming ceremony. Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair is piped away from Horsted Keynes as it leaves with the distinguished guests. 24.04.2009 A scottish piper played at the naming ceremony. Horsted Keynes 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams north past Sheffield Park shed. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair takes water at Sheffield Park. 24.04.2009 The name plate and crest on 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair. 24.04.2009 Running tender first, 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair leaves Kingscote. 24.04.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair takes water at Sheffield Park. 24.04.2009 You try and take a decent picture but the sober and discrete team from BBC News gets everywhere.... 24.04.2009 See what I mean.... 24.04.2009 34059 being prepared for events on Friday 24th. Sheffield Park Shed 23.04.2009 34059 being prepared for events on Friday 24th. Sheffield Park Shed 23.04.2009 Is this the man, kids? 24.04.2009 (See next)

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]]> Thu Apr 23 2009 East Grinstead (High Level) line - Tour 6 - Rowfant Station (Closed), Compasses Crossing and parts of the adjacent Worth Way Country Park. http://train.fotopic.net/c1677159.html The first railway to reach East Grinstead was a branch line from Three Bridges which was constructed by the East Grinstead Railway Company and operated by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway. Work started on 22 November 1853 and the line opened on 9 July 1855, initially with Rowfant as the only intermediate station. Grange Road Station was added in March 1860. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Worth Way Country Park. Monday 6 January 2003: The first railway to reach East Grinstead was a branch line from Three Bridges which was constructed by the East Grinstead Railway Company and operated by the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway. Work started on 22 November 1853 and the line opened on 9 July 1855, initially with Rowfant as the only intermediate station. Grange Road Station was added in March 1860. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Worth Way Country Park.

Rowfant Station no longer exists and the site is occupied by private industrial premises. Part of the eastbound building has been preserved but the site is not open to the public (permission was obtained to take this picture). The edge of the platform can just be seen, but the track bed no longer survives. An access road occupies the space and rises in front of the building. 14.11.2005 Rowfant Station pictured four years later in 2009, looking east. The site is little changed but the hedge has grown somewhat. The building is illuminated by the autumn sun. 18.10.2009 The rear of Rowfant Station building, looking south. The station was constucted in 1855 on land owned by Curtis Lampson, an American fur trader. Stations were often provided for large landowners who allowed the railway to be constructed on their property, but the station was otherwise very isolated and little used. 18.10.2009 This view, taken in 2005, shows the building from a different angle. The building has a unique Coachman's porch, seen on the end of the building, constructed to allow Mr Lampson's coachmen to shelter whilst waiting for him. 14.11.2005 A closer view of the Coachman's porch, looking east, with a more modern carriage in shot. The porch does not actually lead into the building; coachmen were only allowed to stand under the arch. This may have been a mixed blessing as the porch faces the prevailing weather! 14.11.2005 An unobstructed picture of the Coachman's Porch taken in 2009. As the station site is private the Worth Way footpath that follows the course of the old railway is diverted to the north of the station, and is seen on the left passing behind the station building. 18.10.2009 The rear of Rowfant Station building looking west. The footpath in this area is rather drab and dark, with some occasionally unpleasant smells coming from nearby premises. Press on past the site for more pleasant views. 14.11.2005 Beyond the industrial site the single track continued east towards Grange Road station, initially in a shallow cutting, and subsequently on an embankment. This view looks east back on the original track bed. 14.11.2005 East of Rowfant Station the track passed over a country lane on an arched bridge. This view looks north. The trackbed above carries the Worth Way. 18.10.2009 The same bridge as the previous picture, but this time looking south. Between Rowfant Station and this bridge a private siding formerly curved south into Rowfant Brick Works, but this land is now private. 18.10.2009 Back at the station, the sun is just setting and lights shine from the windows of the old Rowfant Station house in the winter of 2005. This building is now offices, but the original Station Master enjoyed a particularly high standard of accommodation. The white part of the fence marks the position of the old level crossing and the two crossing gate posts on the northern side of the crossing can be seen either side of the picture. The right hand post was in a very poor state of repair in a subsequent visit in 2009. 14.11.2005 Although opened in 1855 with just a single track, in 1900-1901 the line was opened up to double track just west of the level crossing and a new passing loop, westbound platform and footbridge provided. These have subsequently been demolished without trace. This view looks east along the double track section towards the site of the level crossing. The station was through the hedge. 14.11.2005 A second view of the level crossing taken from a fractionally different angle in 2009 shows more clearly that the road actually crossed the double track diagonally rather than at right angles, resulting in an unusually long level crossing. The previously white fence marking the level crossing now needs a coat of paint! 18.10.2009 Looking north across the level crossing from the road. On the left is one of the surviving level crossing gate posts. the length of the level crossing is illustrated by the other gate post in the far distance by the car. 18.10.2009 A further view of the very well preserved station house at Rowfant. A signal box stood on the far side of the house, and beyond that, on the south side of the station was a goods yard and goods shed, which was entered from the eastern end of the station. None of these features survive. 18.10.2009 Looking west towards Three Bridges from the western side of the level crossing. It can be seen that the track narrows from the double-tracked station into the single line that progressed west. 18.10.2009 A further view west with a longer lens, with the trees forming a tunnel. The sides of the track would have been completely clear when trains were running. The purpose of the gate posts in the foreground is unknown. 18.10.2009 An explanatory sign erected at Rowfant Station referring to Worth Way Country Park. 14.11.2005 Some distance west of Rowfant Station the railway crossed another local road at Compasses Crossing. No station existed at this location but a crossing keeper's house of very generous size was provided. The track bed is seen here on the left, this view looking east towards Rowfant Station. 18.10.2009 Historic pictures of this crossing are quite rare, but the property as it currently exists appears to have been extended on the right and on the side furthest from the camera. It is still called Keepers Cottage to reflect it's history. Many crossing keepers were given much smaller dwellings. 18.10.2009 Looking south towards Compasses Crossing along what is now quite a busy local road. It was not always so. At one time the gates were closed to traffic and you had to ring a bell for the crossing keeper to open the gates. Nowadays that might not be entirely practicable! 18.10.2009 Looking north along the road towards Compasses Crossing. Unusually the keeper's cottage has very few windows on the south (sunny) side, away from the railway. It is not known whether this is caused by chance, or intentional to ensure that the keeper gave attention to the railway line. 18.10.2009 Looking east along the track bed towards Rowfant Station from beside the keeper's cottage at Compasses Crossing. 18.10.2009 The same view east as in the previous picture, but with a longer lens. 18.10.2009 Looking west across the raod at Compasses Crossing. The traffic along this road is quite fast moving, hence the warning sign. The Worth Way trail is diverted south (to the left) at this point and leaves the old track bed. 18.10.2009 The view west from Compasses Crossing across private land. The railway has been erased from the landscape at this point, and it is understood that some of the land is occupied by landfill. In the distance (out of sight) the M23 motorway runs north to south and has also totally erased all trace of the railway. A small disused section survives west of the motorway, which will be visited on a subsequent occasion. 18.10.2009

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]]> Mon Jan 6 2003 East Grinstead (High Level) line - Tour 2 - Hartfield Station (Closed) and parts of the adjacent Forest Way Country Park. http://train.fotopic.net/c1677155.html Four lines served East Grinstead. The second branch to be built was to the east, constructed by the East Grinstead, Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells Railway Company. Work started on 18 July 1863 but unfortunately failed four official inspections. This delayed the opening until 1 October 1866, when the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) arranged to operate the line. The section through Groombridge to Tunbridge Wells is now part of the Spa Valley Railway and covered in a separate collection. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Forest Way Country Park. Thursday 2 January 2003: Four lines served East Grinstead. The second branch to be built was to the east, constructed by the East Grinstead, Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells Railway Company. Work started on 18 July 1863 but unfortunately failed four official inspections. This delayed the opening until 1 October 1866, when the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) arranged to operate the line. The section through Groombridge to Tunbridge Wells is now part of the Spa Valley Railway and covered in a separate collection. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Forest Way Country Park.

Hartfield Station building, looking north. The station house on the left is a private residence. A nursery occupies the single storey former booking office and the garden behind. 22.03.2009 Much the same view six years earlier, in 2003. Notice the clever drawings of a toy train in the windows of the nursery. 05.04.2003 A closer view of the station house at Hartfield. The double garage is a new addition (the LB&SCR was not known for building them), and the upper storey around the left hand window is also a later extension. Roof mounted solar panels and a satellite dish were also not originally specified... 22.03.2009 Looking east from the surviving road bridge at Hartfield Station, with the extended upper storey nearest the camera. The additional accommodation has blended quite well with the original building. The windows in the section of the house nearest the camera are all new (none were originally fitted in that part of the building). The upper storey casement window above the conservatory is original, and and similar window was provided on the ground floor (now hidden by the conservatory). 22.03.2009 Changing angle slightly, this view looks directly east down the route of the single line through Hartfield Station. The conservatory is on the original platform, and the former platform edge is marked by the narrow raised flower bed. The track bed has been infilled to lawn. 22.03.2009 Using a slightly longer lens, this shot looks east along the track bed past Hartfield Station booking office. In the background the Goods Shed can just be seen in the trees. The canopy is not original but recreates the scene for the children who visit the building. Hartfield Station did not have a full length canopy. It started just beyond the first floor casement window and ran the length of the booking office. A tiny colour change in the brickwork beyond the conservatory roof marks the position in which the canopy was originally fitted. 22.03.2009 A final view looking east along the former platform shows where the public footpath rejoins the route of the former track. 22.03.2009 A public footpath runs east to west past the site, but is diverted around Hartfield station buildings and the purchased land that now forms the gardens. The property is reasonably well screened from walkers. This view looks south. 22.03.2009 A second view looking south towards Hartfield Station from the footpath. The former booking office and goods shed can just be seen. 22.03.2009 At the point at which the public footpath rejoins the track bed a small length of the eastern end of Hartfield Station platform survives. A signal box originally stood at this end of the platform. 22.03.2009 Looking west along the short section of surviving platform. The arrow marks the road bridge under which trains would have passed as they left the station. (The bridge is featured later). 22.03.2009 Another view of the short section of suviving platform at Hartfield Station. The signal box would have been sited at the end of the platform nearest the camera, roughly where the light coloured bush is growing. 18.10.2009 The entrance to Hartfield Station goods yard, looking east. This area has been earmarked for housing, and the area may look very different in due course. 22.03.2009 Hartfield Station once serviced all local commercial traffic, and a large Goods Shed was provided with two doors to transfer goods to vehicles. This view looks north. 22.03.2009 Hartfield Goods Shed looking north east. A long siding passed right through the Goods Shed, exiting through the large doors on the left. The line then led to a loading dock behind the camera. 22.03.2009 Looking east along Hartfield Station goods yard. In addition to the siding leading to the goods shed, which would have been on the left, a long siding ran the length of the goods yard on the right, following roughly the line of the rough grass adjacent to the hard standing. An external crane was provided, and the base would have been roughly where the small circular mound rises from the ground in the centre of the picture. 22.03.2009 The rear of the remaining part of Hartfield Station platform, viewed from the goods yard, looking north east. 22.03.2009 Looking west at land beyond Hartfield Station Goods Shed, the infilled loading dock is marked by an arrow. In earlier years the parked car would have fallen into the loading dock and on to the track. 22.03.2009 At the eastern end of the goods yard what was obviously a lineside hut still survives. It's exact purpose is unknown. It may have been used by shunters, PWay staff, or possibly held a ground frame for the long siding and headshunt that extended to the east. Information would be welcomed. 18.10.2009 The eastern end of the goods yard at Hartfield Station, looking west. The main track bed is on the right, leading west to the station, and the wider section of hard standing denotes the location of the goods yard and headshunt (on the left). The lineside hut seen in the previous picture is beyond the gate. 18.10.2009 Looking east from Hartfield Station at the point where the goods yard and headshunt ends, and the track reverts to a single line heading towards Withyham. 18.10.2009 Looking east from the same point as the previous picture, but with a longer lens. The old track is now a popular leisure area frequently used for cycling or exercising dogs. 18.10.2009 Looking west from the goods yard towards Hartfield Station building. Note the ornate chimneys. 22.03.2009 Hartfield Station, looking south, with the Goods Shed on the left. 22.03.2009 Moving now to the western end of Hartfield Station, this view looks west under the road bridge and along the former track bed that leads to East Grinstead. It is now a cycle route and footpath called Forest Way. 22.03.2009 The reverse of the previous view, looking east under the road bridge towards Hartfield Station. Trains would have passed directly through the garden hedge. 22.03.2009 Walking west from Hartfield Station along the single track, the drainage ditches on either side can still be seen and remain functional. However when trains were running the lineside would have beeb clear of trees and undergrowth. Another bridge is in the distance. 18.10.2009 West of Hartfield Station a two arch bridge takes a public bridleway across the railway. The vast majority of bridges on the line were built with at least two arches, suggesting that the engineers might have been allowing for a subsequent conversion to double track. This, of course never happened. This view looks west. 18.10.2009 The reverse of the previous shot, looking east towards Hartfield Station. The overbridge at Hartfield can just be seen in the distance but the lens makes it appear nearer than is actually the case. 18.10.2009 Turning round at the same point, this shot looks west along the track bed. The next station was Forest Row, but this was a considerable distance down the line.18.10.2009 There is a path up from the railway on to the bridge (the gate on the left) and this shot looks south across the bridge in the direction of Hartfield village. 18.10.2009 Still up on the land adjacent to the bridge, this shot looks north. The entrance to the bridge is gated to control livestock, and the bridleway leads away towards Chartners Farm. 18.10.2009 Finally an attempt was made to show the cutting from the top of the bridge. A westward view was impossible. This shot east is obstructed by trees but shows a small section of the track bed with the more modern path up to the bridge on the left. 18.10.2009

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]]> Thu Jan 2 2003 East Grinstead (High Level) line - Tour 1 - Withyham Station (Closed) and parts of the adjacent Forest Way Country Park. http://train.fotopic.net/c1677154.html Four lines served East Grinstead. The second branch to be built was to the east, constructed by the East Grinstead, Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells Railway Company. Work started on 18 July 1863 but unfortunately failed four official inspections. This delayed the opening until 1 October 1866, when the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) arranged to operate the line. The section through Groombridge to Tunbridge Wells is now part of the Spa Valley Railway and covered in a separate collection. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Forest Way Country Park. Wednesday 1 January 2003: Four lines served East Grinstead. The second branch to be built was to the east, constructed by the East Grinstead, Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells Railway Company. Work started on 18 July 1863 but unfortunately failed four official inspections. This delayed the opening until 1 October 1866, when the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway (LBSCR) arranged to operate the line. The section through Groombridge to Tunbridge Wells is now part of the Spa Valley Railway and covered in a separate collection. The line closed on 1 January 1967, a victim of the Beeching cuts, and the track bed now forms part of the Forest Way Country Park.

Withyham Station looking east in 2003. At the time the public footpath ran directly adjacent to the old station platform although the route has subsequently been slightly adjusted (see later). 05.04.2003 A second view of Withyham Station looking east in 2003. The gate in the foreground marks the position of the old level crossing. In common with many country stations built around this time the station is actually not in the village of Withyham at all. It is adjacent to the hamlet of Batts Green which may have enjoyed a brief period of development when the railway arrived. 05.04.2003 A later view of Withyham Station in 2009, looking east. A small fence has been erected to keep walkers away from the edge of the old platform, and the route of the public footpath has been marginally adjusted. It is unclear whether this is to protect private property or on safety grounds as some of the bricks are loose. 02.03.2009 A wider view of Withham Station, looking east on 02.03.2009. The station originally had a canopy, which started just to the left of the upper casement window in the main part part of the house, and ran the length of the adjacent single storey waiting room and booking hall. The ornate post in the right foreground is a milepost, of which more later. Withyham Station building looking south. This building has been modified in much the same way as the station house at Hartfield. The two storey section of the house on the right originally had no large windows, just a door in the position of the ground floor window, with a tiny window to the right. The first floor has been extended to the right. The window on the left has been inserted into the original building, and the section of the building including the right hand upper window is a new addition. In the larger (centre) part of the house the first floor casement window and the double window below it are original. 02.03.2009 The original forecourt of Withyham Station, looking north. The old single storey entrance to the station, on the right of the station house, is obscured by a hedge, but has been extensively reconstructed. 02.03.2009 Looking east at Withyham Station, the gate marks the entrance to the old goods yard, which is private property. There are no obvious remaning features although the area once contained two long sidings, a goods loop and a Goods Shed. A further long siding ran east away from the station and goods yard, and could have served as a headshunt for the goods yard. 02.03.2009 Looking east past the old platform at Withyham Station on 05.04.2003 A similar view in 2009, showing that a fence now takes walkers away from the platform edge. The fence on the right marks the position of the old signal box that controlled the level crossing and goods yard. A modern house now occupies this site. The station building was originally finished in brick, and the white colour is a modern addition. 02.03.2009 A closer view of Withyham Station platform, looking east. Some recent tree felling had taken place on the platform edge. 02.03.2009 The section of platform adjacent to the station house is clearly visible, with privacy maintained by a thick hedge. 02.03.2009 Further east, the hedge around Withyham Station house is replaced by a fence. On the whole the old platform is better defined than at Hartfield. 02.03.2009 This is the eastern end of the platform at Withyham Station, looking west. Although rather overgrown the structure is still largely intact. 18.10.2009 A Withyham Station sign above the original casement window on the station house. 02.03.2009 Looking south across the adjacent fields towards Withyham Station. 02.03.2009 The route of the original track bed leading east away from Withyham Station. A long siding or headshunt was originally on the right of the main track bed. 02.03.2009 Looking west towards Withyham station from the point at which the goods yard ended. The entrance to the goods yard and headshunt are poorly defined in the undergrowth, but the main track bed follows the obvious path. The goods yard led away to the left towards the metal gate in the distance. 18.10.2009 Moving closer to the old Withyham goods yard the main track bed is clearly defined on the right. The goods yard is over the hedge on the left. It has been totally levelled and converted to a private pasture area for animals. There are no surviving signs of the railway. 18.10.2009 Turning round and looking east, the single line led away towards the signal box at Ashurst Junction. Trains normally continued to Groombridge and Tunbridge Wells. That part of the line is now served by the Spa Valley Railway. 18.10.2009 A second view east with a longer lens. Trees growing in the drainage ditches either side of the line now form a tunnel, but when the railway was operating the lineside would have been kept clear, opening up the views. 18.10.2009 Looking west towards Withyham Station from a position east of the station. The path is perhaps now too overgrown, and would benefit from some planned clearance to open up some of the views. 18.10.2009 Returning to the western end of Withyham Station, ornate markers have been installed along the track bed, which now forms the route of Forest Way, a cross-country route for walkers and cyclists. In this case the sign shows the distances to Hartfield and Groombridge, formerly adjacent stations. 02.03.2009 Looking east across the old level crossing towards Withyham Station. 02.03.2009 The reverse of the previous view, looking west from Withyham Station across the old level crossing. 02.03.2009 Looking west along the old track bed in the direction of Hartfield Station. 02.03.2009 The single line track bed west of Withyham Station, looking west. 02.03.2009 West of Withyham Station this shot looks west through a tunnel of trees. The lineside would have been cleared when trains were running. 25.10.2003 The reverse of the previous view, looking east towards Withyham Station. 25.10.2003

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]]> Wed Jan 1 2003 Bluebell Railway - 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1671117.html General pictures of the Bluebell Railway in 2009, excluding special events which are covered in separate collections. Please note that the majority of pictures of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair are in a separate gallery. Thursday 1 January 2009: General pictures of the Bluebell Railway in 2009, excluding special events which are covered in separate collections. Please note that the majority of pictures of 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair are in a separate gallery.

34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams north over Poleay Bridge. 10.10.2009 80151 crosses Poleay Bridge with a special train. 10.10.2009 The breeze catches the steam as 9017 hauls the Victorian coaches and the Director's Saloon north over Poleay Bridge. 10.10.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair gives a steam display as it departs north from Sheffield Park. 10.10.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair glints in the sun as it runs round at Sheffield Park. 10.10.2009 9017 steams north towards Ketches Halt with the Victorian coaches. 10.10.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams north over Poleay Bridge. 10.10.2009 80151 steams past the southbound Inner Home signal at Sheffield Park. 10.10.2009 9017 emerges from West Hoathly tunnel with a service train. 10.10.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams north towards Ketches Halt. 10.10.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair steams north over Poleay Bridge. 10.10.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair makes smoke signals as it passes the southbound Inner Home bracket signal outside Sheffield Park. 10.10.2009 The crew on 34059 as it climbs over Poleay Bridge. 10.10.2009 80151 steams towards Sheffield Park with a special train. 10.10.2009 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair rounds the bend from Sloop Bridge. 10.10.2009 There is a small clue in the picture... 488 in Sheffield Park Shed in a slightly refreshed state. 10.10.2009 672 Fenchurch had a slight technical problem. Workshops were performing one of their miracles... Sheffield Park Shed 10.10.2009 9017 climbs Freshfield Bank with the Golden Arrow. 27.09.2009 Fenchurch steams south from Ketches Halt with the Observation Car. 27.09.2009 592 steams north over Poleay Bridge with the Grandparents Special. 27.09.2009 80151 steams south towards Sloop Bridge with the only service train of the day. 27.09.2009 672 Fenchurch, with Locomotive Inspector in the bowler hat, rounds the bend from Sloop Bridge with the Observation Car. 27.09.2009 9017 approaches Kingscote with the Pullman. 27.09.2009 672 Fenchurch substituted for the failed 1638. It is a brave little engine, but the full set of Victorian coaches proved too much. It retired to the shed with priming problems, workshops performed a miracle, and it reappeared later. 27.09.2009 672 Fenchurch at Sheffield Park ready for operation with the Observation Car. 27.09.2009 672 Fenchurch takes water at Sheffield Park. 27.09.2009 Mechanical horses are on the Woodpax site as Fenchurch departs from Sheffield Park in the background. 27.09.2009. Please note that this viewpoint is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. 672 Fenchurch departs from Sheffield Park. 27.09.2009. Please note that this viewpoint is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. A crew member looks out as 592 steams over Poleay Bridge. 27.09.2009 The Bluebell Railway Band were entertaining the visitors at Sheffield Park. 27.09.2009 1638 is currently in the workshops. Lewis Nodes has made the following statement: The right driving crankpin (the one replaced at overhaul) has come loose, which was the cause for the recent hot big end and irregular valve events. The wheels are going away on Wednesday for a replacement pin to be fitted. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. 1638 is currently in the workshops. The defective wheel set awaiting a journey to Devon. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. 1638 is currently in the workshops. This picture hopefully brings out the huge amount of work that has to be carried out stripping the locomotive in order to release the defective wheel. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. 1638 is currently in the workshops. The engine over the wheel drop after the removal of the defective wheel set. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. 1638 is currently in the workshops. A second view of the engine over the wheel drop. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. 1638 is currently in the workshops. A close up of the section of the frames from which the wheels have been removed. 27.09.2009. Please note that the workshops are OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. Whilst the tender was detached from 1638 it was possible to obtain this view of the cab. Sheffield Park Workshops 10.10.2009 The coal man approaches 9017. Sheffield Park Shed 27.09.2009 And the whole hopper is neatly tipped into the tender. Sheffield Park Shed 27.09.2009 9017 retires for the night, and the smoke box is cleaned out. Sheffield Park Shed 27.09.2009 The central part of the engine shed is very dark, but I used what light was available for this rare shot of 1618. 27.09.2009 The north end of the engine shed, with 80064, 65 and 541 out of service. 27.09.2009 A rare view of the North London Tank, 27505, stored out of service. Sheffield Park 27.09.2009. Please note that this area is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. A rare view of the North London Tank, 27505, stored out of service. Sheffield Park 27.09.2009. Please note that this area is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. A rare view of the North London Tank, 27505, stored out of service. Sheffield Park 27.09.2009. Please note that this area is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. A rare view of the North London Tank, 27505, stored out of service. Sheffield Park 27.09.2009. Please note that this area is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. A limited view of the cab of the North London Tank, 27505, stored out of service. Sheffield Park 27.09.2009. Please note that this area is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. 80100 remains covered, and in Barry scrapyard condition, in store at Sheffield Park. 27.09.2009. Please note that this area is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. A large swarm of bees had decided that the cover for 80100 was a nice sheltered retreat. Having reported their presence it is wise to make your excuses and leave.... In the distance you hear cries of Beekeeper, quick, send for a beekeeper.... It could have been worse; it might have been wasps.... :-) 27.09.2009. Please note that this area is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders. 80100 remains covered, and in Barry scrapyard condition, in store at Sheffield Park. 27.09.2009. Please note that this area is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS to all visitors including lineside permit holders.

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]]> Thu Jan 1 2009 Spa Valley Railway - Birchden http://train.fotopic.net/c1667264.html A collection for the enthusiast showing the work on the tracks and embankments carried out between Groombridge sidings and Birchden in order to run trains as far as the old Network Rail junction. Pictures in this collection were taken in the period 2003 to 2009. For part of this time the extension to Birchden was disused. *** Recent pictures are at the end of the collection. *** Separate collections cover Groombridge Station, Forge Farm Crossing and Eridge Station. Wednesday 1 January 2003: A collection for the enthusiast showing the work on the tracks and embankments carried out between Groombridge sidings and Birchden in order to run trains as far as the old Network Rail junction. Pictures in this collection were taken in the period 2003 to 2009. For part of this time the extension to Birchden was disused. *** Recent pictures are at the end of the collection. *** Separate collections cover Groombridge Station, Forge Farm Crossing and Eridge Station.

This old view from 2003 shows what was then the end of the operational track (denoted by the sleepers) adjacent to the old signal post south of Groombridge sidings. Note that the area was then very overgrown. 19.10.2003 Looking north from just beyond the pile of sleepers in 2003. At the time both lines were disused, and the up line is covered in debris. 19.10.2003 Looking south along the (then) disused line towards Birchden from just beyond the pile of sleepers. Disused stock is in the distance. 19.10.2003 Looking north along the disused track from about milepost 28 II (having walked past the disused stock and now looking back north at it) 19.10.2003 Contrasting with the 2003 views, looking north from milepost 28 II in 2005 the eastern embankment has been cleared of scrub leaving only major trees. Further north the up line is used as a siding. 19.09.2005 Milepost 28 II looking south towards Birchden. The eastern embankment has been cleared of scrub, the running (down) line is open and the up line is disused with sleepers stacked on it. 19.09.2005 Slightly south of milepost 28 II looking north. The up line is out of service and covered in debris, the running line is open, and the eastern embankment cleared. 19.09.2005 Looking south slightly south of milepost 28 II the running line is open and the eastern embankment cleared of scrub. 19.09.2005 Harrisons Rocks on the eastern side of the extended line. 19.09.2005 The scrub clearance on the eastern embankment allows better views from the train. A second sighting of Harrisons Rocks. 19.09.2005 Looking north from milepost 28 I the western embankment has been cleared, as has the eastern embankment beyond the trees 19.09.2005 The much improved scene at Milepost 28 I looking south. The smoke is from burning by the scrub clearing gang. 19.09.2005 Looking north towards the fire in the previous picture from the disused overbridge at Birchden the sides of both embankments have been cleared. 19.09.2005 Looking south from the Birchden overbridge the down (running) line is available for service and the embankment sides clear. 19.09.2005 A view south east from the overbridge showing the attractive scenery along the extension. 19.09.2005 A view east from the overbridge towards Harrisons Rocks. 19.09.2005 A earlier 2003 view, looking south towards the Network Rail fence at Birchden with both up and down lines still in situ but disused. 19.10.2003 A 2003 view of the end of the disused line at Birchden. The fence and Stop symbol marks the approach to the old junction with the Uckfield line 19.10.2003 The end of the current running line at Birchden. A The old signal post and Looking north towards Groombridge from behind the buffers it can be seen that the up line has been lifted near the termination point. 19.09.2005 Birchden looking south through the Network Rail fence towards the current Network Rail line to Uckfield 05.10.2003 Almost hidden by the trees a Right at the point where the Network Rail fence is erected milepost 28 lays almost hidden in the undergrowth. 19.09.2005 The track furniture gives away the date of last renewal as 1955. 19.10.2005 The gates at Birchden which mark the Network Rail boundary with the Spa Valley Railway. The new track to Eridge leads south under the gates. 14.09.2008 Looking south from the gates the Spa Valley track curves to join the former Down line to Eridge. The Network Rail running line from Ashurst enters from the right of the photograph. A small section of the old Up line to Groombridge remains in situ in the foreground. 14.09.2008 Taken with a long lens this view looks south to the point where the Spa Valley line curves to run alongside Network Rail. The lens makes the curve appear more sharp than is actually the case. The Network Rail line is strictly OUT OF BOUNDS. 14.09.2008 For those who doubted that the Spa Valley Railway would ever run south of Birchden the dismantled former buffers lay beside the line at Birchden. 14.09.2008 The other section of the buffers beside the line at Birchden. 14.09.2008 Pointwork is currently stored on the line at Birchden. This may have come from Eridge or from the former points that were still in situ at Birchden Junction (both sets having been removed by the contractors). 14.09.2008 Materials await attention at Birchden. The old Down signal post protecting Birchden Junction can be seen in the background. 14.09.2008 Looking north towards Groombridge from Birchden Junction. 14.09.2008 The same view as the previous picture, but with a long lens. The distance appears much shorter than is actually the case. 14.09.2008 The 28 mile post has been refurbished. A clearer shot was not possible as it stands on the wrong side of the fence on Network Rail land. The same milepost can be seen in a sad state earlier in the collection. 14.09.2008 Network Rail has done an excellent job clearing the lineside in the vicinity of the old Birchden Junction. This view looks south from the Spa Valley Railway gates towards the position of the former junction. A small section of the old Up line sits abandoned in the foreground on Network Rail land. 02.03.2009 Taken with a long lens this shot shows the point at which the Spa Valley line curves south to run alongside the Network Rail line (on the right). The Whistle boards refer to Forge Farm Crossing, around the bend, and the Network Rail southbound speed limit reduces to 60mph at this point. 02.03.2009 Turning round, this view looks north from the Spa Valley boundary. The Network Rail line is on the left, heading for Ashurst, and on the right the Spa Valley line is en route for Groombridge. 02.03.2009 Looking north along the Network Rail line, towards Ashurst. 02.03.2009 Turbostar 171806 speeds south past Birchden with a service for Uckfield. 02.03.2009 Looking north from the Spa Valley boundary towards Groombridge. On the right is a signal post which originally held the southbound home signal at Birchden Junction. Beyond that is the rear of an old Whistle sign. 02.03.2009 Looking north towards Groombridge from a position north of the old signal post in the previous picture. At present there is a large amount of surplus track and other material at this location. It is assumed that this will be cleared in due course. 02.03.2009 Looking north towards Groombridge from the same position, but with a long lens. The distance appears far shorter than is actually the case. In the centre of the picture the track bends right towards Groombridge, and stock stands on the old Up line, which is now a siding. 02.03.2009 Looking south from the same spot. On the left a Stop sign marks the current limit of services. The Network Rail line can be seen on the right of the picture. 02.03.2009 A closer view of the Stop board, with the gates in the background that mark the current boundary with Network Rail. 02.03.2009 The gates that currently block the route to Eridge. Can anyone clarify whether these gates will be removed when the section to Eridge opens? 02.03.2009 The 28 milepost has appeared before, but has become something of a symbol of the on-going improvements. Logs can be seen where Network Rail has cleared the lineside beyond the gates. 02.03.2009 A while ago this view of the southern side of the gates would have been impossible owing to the overgrown state of the lineside. 02.03.2009 Looking north just south of the former Birchden Junction. It may be an optical illusion, but the Whistle sign on the right appears rather close to the refurbished Spa Valley track. 02.03.2009 This is the site of the former Birchden Junction signal box. The box is long gone, but some traces of the foundations can still be seen. 02.03.2009

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]]> Wed Jan 1 2003 Bluebell Railway - Branch Line Weekend 2009 http://train.fotopic.net/c1656937.html The Bluebell Railway Branch Line Weekend was held on 21 and 22 February 2009. A selection of pictures from the event. Photos are in random order. Saturday 21 February 2009: The Bluebell Railway Branch Line Weekend was held on 21 and 22 February 2009. A selection of pictures from the event. Photos are in random order.

592 made a surprise appearance on Saturday afternoon, double heading with 65. Town Place Farm Bridge 21.02.2009 An SE&CR triple-header. 753, 65 and 592 tackle the climb from Three Arch Bridge into Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 753 crosses Poleay Bridge with the mixed train. 21.02.2009 65 approaches the southbound bracket signal outside Sheffield Park as it leaves with the Metropolitan coaches. 21.02.2009 672 steams south from Tremains foot crossing with the Saturday mixed train. 21.02.2009 9017 rounds the curve towards the ruined Town Place Farm Bridge with a train including the six-wheel milk tanker. 21.02.2009 80151 rounds the curve beyond Monteswood Lane Bridge. 21.02.2009 65 climbs away from Sheffield Park towards Ketches Halt. 21.02.2009 An SE&CR triple-header. 753, 65 and 592 tackle the climb from Three Arch Bridge into Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 (I have excluded the gentleman in an orange jacket who kindly stood in front of the train...) 9017 rounds the curve towards Horsted House Farm crossing. 22.02.2009 1638 is now back in action, and steams north from Leamland Bridge with a train including the six-wheel milk tanker. 22.02.2009 One of the new volunteers at Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 753 steams north from Sheffield Park with the mixed train. 21.02.2009 80151 crosses New Road Bridge as it sets off south from Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 753 and 592 double-head a train north from Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 80151 steams south over Horsted House Farm crossing. 22.02.2009 753 and 65 double-head a southbound train from Kingscote. 21.02.2009 9017 arrives at Kingscote. 21.02.2009 80151 rounds the curve beyond Monteswood Lane Bridge. 21.02.2009 753 and 65 steam south over Tremains foot crossing with the Metropolitan coaches. 21.02.2009 80151 steams south under Horsted House Farm Bridge. 22.02.2009 The SE&CR triple-header of 753, 592 and 65 returns to Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 9017 steams north through Three Arch Bridge. 22.02.2009 80151 leaves Horsted Keynes with a northbound service. 22.02.2009 The SE&CR triple-header of 753, 592 and 65 returns to Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 753 and 592 double-head a train north from Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 753 crosses Poleay Bridge with the Saturday mixed train. 21.02.2009 488 was available for viewing in the dock at Sheffield Park. 21.02.2009 753 shunts stock at Sheffield Park. 21.02.2009 753 drifts out of Sheffield Park shed to collect it's train. 21.02.2009 We get a lot of photographers down there, but we are too far away to have our picture taken here. Sheffield Park shed 21.02.2009 The crew on 753 as it steams away from Sheffield Park. 21.02.2009 Keeping a look out from the Guards Van on the mixed train. Poleay Bridge 21.02.2009 The Maunsell Society had a stand at Sheffield Park. 21.02.2009 A Porter waits to signal that the southbound train has arrived at Horsted Keynes complete. 22.02.2009 (I think I was spotted as I took this one...) Whether it is Branch Line Weekend or not, work has to go on. Horsted Keynes 22.02.2009 It was Wheelbarrow Day at Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 Inspecting the points south of Horsted Keynes. Hello, is that a camera in the distance...? 22.02.2009 A vintage car outside Horsted Keynes Station. 22.02.2009 Your Fixed Penalty Notice for failing to comply with the sign is in the post... Horsted Keynes 22.02.2009 263 was hauled out of the shed by 65 for a photo opportunity, but unfortunately it's position and the light made it difficult to obtain a satisfactory picture. 21.02.2009 592 being prepared for a surprise appearance on Saturday afternoon. Sheffield Park shed 21.02.2009 Responding to complaints, management have now converted 73136 to steam, and this picture shows the two newly fitted brick chimneys... 22.02.2009 73136 (E6043) Perseverance on display at Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 73136 (E6043) Perseverance on display at Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009 73136 (E6043) Perseverance on display at Horsted Keynes. 22.02.2009

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]]> Sat Feb 21 2009 Bluebell Railway - Motive Power - 4-VEP 3417 Gordon Pettitt http://train.fotopic.net/c1639443.html 4-VEP 3417 Gordon Pettitt was presented to the Bluebell Railway at a ceremony held at East Grinstead on 17 January 2009. *** Please note that 3417 left East Grinstead on 22 January 2009 to go to Knights Rail Services at Eastleigh on loan. *** <p> AN UPDATE TO THE TRACKBED TOUR FROM THE IMBERHORNE LANE TIP TO EAST GRINSTEAD HAS BEEN UPLOADED TO THE <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinstead">KINGSCOTE TO EAST GRINSTEAD COLLECTION</a></p> Saturday 17 January 2009: 4-VEP 3417 Gordon Pettitt was presented to the Bluebell Railway at a ceremony held at East Grinstead on 17 January 2009. *** Please note that 3417 left East Grinstead on 22 January 2009 to go to Knights Rail Services at Eastleigh on loan. *** <p> AN UPDATE TO THE TRACKBED TOUR FROM THE IMBERHORNE LANE TIP TO EAST GRINSTEAD HAS BEEN UPLOADED TO THE <a href="http://train.fotopic.net/eastgrinstead">KINGSCOTE TO EAST GRINSTEAD COLLECTION</a></p>

4-VEP 3417 Gordon Pettitt stands at East Grinstead after it's presentation to the Bluebell Railway. 17.01.2009 Roy Watts (BPRS Chairman), Mac Macintosh (former Engineering Director SWT), Gordon Pettitt (former General Manager of the Southern Region of British Rail), Ginnie Waddingham (Mayor of East Grinstead), and Graham Flight (Chairman of Bluebell Railway PLC). East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Gordon Pettitt addresses the large crowd. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Roy Watts, Chairman, BRPS, hands over £1 in payment for 3417! East Grinstead 17.01.2009 The nameplate and inscription on 4-VEP 3417 Gordon Pettitt. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 73109, a South West trains Electro-diesel named in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Britain hauls 4-VEP 3417 Gordon Pettitt into Platform 1 at East Grinstead Station. 17.01.2009 3417 Gordon Pettitt touches Bluebell metals for the first time. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 3417 Gordon Pettitt runs down the line that will link Network Rail with the Bluebell Railway. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Looking north from the viaduct, 3417 Gordon Pettitt stands at East Grinstead. 17.01.2009 Having arrived at East Grinstead Station 3417 stands on Network Rail metals, prior to being shunted south on to the Bluebell Railway. Note the huge crowd at the far end of the platform. 17.01.2009 3417 Gordon Pettitt and 377134 at East Grinstead station. 17.01.2009 Having been fully shunted on to Bluebell metals 3417 Gordon Pettitt does not quite reach the viaduct, but is wedged slightly foul of the points that will eventually give access to the new Bluebell platform. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 73109 approaches East Grinstead with the 4-VEP. 17.01.2009 Gordon Pettitt, former General Manager of the Southern Region of British Rail, listens to the speeches at East Grinstead. 17.01.2009 Bernard Holden MBE, President, watched the arrival. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Mac Macintosh (former Engineering Director SWT) addresses the crowd. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Graham Flight, Chairman and Secretary, Bluebell PLC says a few words. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Roy Watts, Chairman, BRPS, makes a presentation to Gordon Pettitt. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 The Mayor of East Grinstead, Councillor Ginnie Waddingham, addresses the crowd, remembering her exploits with a giant digger at Imberhorne Lane tip. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Mac Macintosh (former Engineering Director SWT) addresses the crowd. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Mac Macintosh (former Engineering Director SWT) receives a ceremonial pound coin from Gordon Pettitt in payment for the train. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Mac Macintosh (former Engineering Director SWT) displays the mounted pound coin with which he was presented. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 The inscription on the ceremonial paddle presented to Gordon Pettitt. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Gordon Pettitt poses alongside his train. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Bernard Holden raises his hat in salute. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Roy Watts is reflected in the carriage window as 3417 Gordon Pettitt is shunted on to Bluebell metals. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 Do you know THIS man....? East Grinstead 17.01.2009 A famous photographer (and his Dad....) East Grinstead 17.01.2009 A very important bus. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 A British Railways van. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 A vintage Postal Engineering vehicle. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 There was a display of stationary engines at East Grinstead. 17.01.2009 Inside one of the saloons on 3417 Gordon Pettitt. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 A First Class compartment on 3417 Gordon Pettitt. East Grinstead 17.01.2009 A Second Class compartment on board 3417 Gordon Pettitt. East Grinstead 17.01.2009. Photographs relating to the viaduct and a track bed tour from Hill Place Farm accommodation bridge to East Grinstead are now available. Follow the link below.

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]]> Sat Jan 17 2009 Bluebell Railway - Locomotives - 53809 - A visit to the Bluebell Railway http://train.fotopic.net/c1635742.html S&DJR 7F 53809 visited the Bluebell Railway from 1 October 2008 to 24 December 2008. The locomotive is normally based at the Midland Railway, Butterley. Wednesday 1 October 2008: S&DJR 7F 53809 visited the Bluebell Railway from 1 October 2008 to 24 December 2008. The locomotive is normally based at the Midland Railway, Butterley.

53809 approaches Birch Farm foot crossing with the Pines Express. 18.10.2008 53809 poses at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 leaves Sheffield Park with a Santa Special. 06.12.2008 53809 hauls a service train north towards Horsted Keynes station, with the southbound Advance Starter in the foreground. 17.10.2008 As the low winter sun sinks below the horizon it gives the train a golden glow. 53809 climbs towards Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 07.12.2008 53809 passes 80151 at Horsted Keynes as both work Santa Specials. 20.12.2008 53809 approaches the ruined Town Place Farm accommodation bridge with a northbound train. 17.10.2008 53809 steams south over Poleay Bridge. 17.10.2008 Taken with a very long lens, the setting sun shines through Three Arch Bridge as 53809 climbs towards Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 07.12.2008 53809 arrives at Kingscote with a service train. 18.10.2008 53809 makes smoke signals whilst leaving Sheffield Park with a Santa Special. 06.12.2008 If you get the angles right at Horsted Keynes the evening sun can produce some pleasing colours. 53809 steams north towards the station. 07.12.2008 53809 arrives at Kingscote with a Santa Special. 07.12.2008 The crew of 53809 surrender the single line token to the signalman at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 53809 approaches Birch Farm foot crossing with the Pines Express. 18.10.2008 53809 gives a steam display as it leaves Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 53809 steams south towards the bracket signal outside Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 53809 rounds the curve from Sloop Bridge. 17.10.2008 53809 crosses Poleay Bridge with a northbound service. 17.10.2008 53809 approaches Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 20.12.2008 53809 rounds the curve from Three Arch Bridge en route to Horsted Keynes. 17.10.2008 53809 gives a steam display as it climbs away from Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 53809 waits at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 waits at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 gets under way at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 steams north from the southern signal box at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 waits at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 leaves Kingscote. 06.12.2008 53809 prepares to surrender the single line token at Kingscote signal box. 18.10.2008

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]]> Wed Oct 1 2008 Bluebell Railway - Animals http://train.fotopic.net/c1628386.html A small selection of the animals you can see along the Bluebell Railway. Sunday 1 January 2006: A small selection of the animals you can see along the Bluebell Railway.

A new collection featuring animals along the Bluebell Railway is now available. A rabbit outside Sheffield Park. 17.06.2007 The duck is mirrored in the River Ouse. You have got to be quackers to stand around waiting for trains... 26.04.2008 Where did that squirrel go? Horsted Keynes 22.02.2009 If I run towards him perhaps he will go away. Sheffield Park 09.04.2008 Do you know when the six-wheel milk tanker will be running next? My friends at Nobles Farm, next to the railway. (Well it's boring eating grass all day, and you may as well go and talk to people on the embankment). When crossing the track do not step on any rail... Ketches Halt 02.04.2007 Ignore him. There will be a goods train along in a minute and he will go away... Kingscote 14.10.2007 Please can I be on your website? Horsted Keynes 01.01.2007 If I flap my wings and squawk that should frighten him.... Sheffield Park 09.04.2008 Having checked that the signal is at danger a deer crosses the line at Kingscote. 27.08.2006 I am very sorry, but this is my field; can you take your pictures somewhere else? Freshfield Bank 21.10.2007 A hawk flies above the line south of Lindfield Wood. 01.05.2008 New staff have been recruited to help S&T check remote equipment. Horsted Keynes 14.04.2007 A volunteer from the Horsted Keynes Buffet waste disposal unit. All platform scraps welcome. 10.05.2006 There is a black sheep in every family. Horsted Keynes 12.01.2008 The crumbs from the Victorian Christmas train are welcomed by this little visitor. Horsted Keynes 22.12.2007 If I keep very still in this long grass he might walk right past me... Ketches Halt 08.05.2007 The largest herd of deer I have ever seen in the open in daylight near the railway. Kingscote 26.04.2008 House Martins are lodging (without charge) at Sheffield Park, and this baby was watching the trains with interest. 22.06.2008 If you are caught lineside without hi-viz the only thing you can do is hop it... Horsted Keynes 14.04.2007 Hello, it's that photographer again. Sheffield Park 29.06.2008 My lunch is far more important than passing trains. Freshfield Bank 08.05.2007 Beware of the Guard-Geese at Freshfield.... 17.02.2007 I wish the grass was a bit more green... Spring lamb at Sheffield Park 04.03.2006 Ignore the advancing cow and keep taking the pictures. Freshfield Bank 21.10.2007 Please look both ways; trains run either way on each line. Leamland Bridge 23.09.2007 With a shooting party in the vicinity the local ducks all found a nice remote pond on which to park. Freshfield Bank 23.09.2007 In 2008 a pheasant adopted Poleay Bridge as it's territory and is seen here on patrol. 01.05.2008 In 2008 a pheasant adopted Poleay Bridge as it's territory. Hello, is that another photographer? 01.05.2008 Never mind the trains; Leamland Bridge is a nice place for a snooze. 23.09.2007

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]]> Sun Jan 1 2006 Bluebell Railway Victorian Christmas 2008 http://train.fotopic.net/c1627178.html Pictures of the Victorian Christmas trains are now available, including some photos of the Santa trains running at the same time. A separate collection covers the main Santa trains. Saturday 20 December 2008: Pictures of the Victorian Christmas trains are now available, including some photos of the Santa trains running at the same time. A separate collection covers the main Santa trains.

Victorian Christmas pictures are available. 65 steams north from Leamland Bridge. 20.12.2008 The Victorian Santa's grotto at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 Big smiles at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 The Victorian Christmas train stands at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 A distinguished gentleman waited to greet visitors at Horsted Keynes, whilst the staff in the ticket office watched events! 20.12.2008 The Victorian Christmas train arrives at Kingscote. 20.12.2008 A Victorian lady and gentleman at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 A distinguished lady and gentleman at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 The last rays of the sun illuminate the sky as the dusk departure of the Victorian Christmas train stands at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 80151 leaves Kingscote with a Santa Special. 20.12.2008 The famous detective Mr Sherlock Holmes kindly agreed to pose with his party at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 By Royal Appointment, Nuts to Queen Victoria. Horsted Keynes 20.12.2008 The crew of 53809 surrender the single line token to the signalman at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 A smiling member of the team at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 Smart gentlemen at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 53809 passes 80151 at Horsted Keynes as both work Santa Specials. 20.12.2008 Sherlock Holmes had arrived to investigate after hearing reports of an awful howling noise from Imberhorne Marsh. However he soon established that it was not a terrible hound. It was just the Extension Team after they had been told to stop digging..... Horsted Keynes 20.12.2008 With no less than five signals in view, 80151 returns to Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 20.12.2008 65 awaits departure from Horsted Keynes with the Victorian Christmas train. 20.12.2008 Santa's grotto at Kingscote, complete with Queen Victoria and her lady in waiting. 20.12.2008 Two appropriately dressed gentlemen at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 Customers surround the stalls at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 Santa's grotto at Kingscote, complete with Queen Victoria and her lady in waiting. 20.12.2008 Horsted Keynes 20.12.2008 The Victorian Santa's grotto at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 The Victorian Santa's grotto at Horsted Keynes, assisted by Queen Victoria. 20.12.2008 The Victorian Santa's grotto at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 Santa's grotto at Kingscote, complete with Queen Victoria and her lady in waiting. 20.12.2008 One of the stalls at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 A Victorian family at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 Don't look now, but there is something attached to your hat.... Kingscote 20.12.2008 Santa's grotto at Kingscote, complete with Queen Victoria and her lady in waiting. 20.12.2008 Horsted Keynes 20.12.2008 The Crazy Cottage game at Horsted Keynes in daylight, showing the decoration on the stall. 20.12.2008 The Crazy Cottage game at Horsted Keynes at night. 20.12.2008 The Crazy Cottage game at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 A gentleman busy providing the music at Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 Horsted Keynes 20.12.2008 Horsted Keynes 20.12.2008 53809 approaches Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 20.12.2008 65 stands at Horsted Keynes in the evening light. 20.12.2008 80151 arrives at Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 20.12.2008 65 surrenders the single line token to the signalman at Kingscote. 20.12.2008 53809 awaits departure from Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 A large crowd gathers around 80151 at Kingscote as the younger visitors get a chance to see the engine. 20.12.2008 80151 departs from Kingscote with a Santa Special. 20.12.2008 Important gentlemen wave their hats as 53809 departs from Horsted Keynes. 20.12.2008 80151 leaves Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 20.12.2008 The station is quiet, the trains have gone, and the signalman takes a break outside the door of his box. Horsted Keynes 20.12.2008 (You never know when a long distance lens might be pointed at you.....)

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]]> Sat Dec 20 2008 A photographic tour of the Dungeness Branch and the Marshlink Line http://train.fotopic.net/c1623815.html The main index page for the photographic tour of the Dungeness Branch and the Marshlink Line from Ashford International to Hastings. Saturday 1 January 2005: The main index page for the photographic tour of the Dungeness Branch and the Marshlink Line from Ashford International to Hastings.

Collections for the Dungeness Branch and Marshlink Line are available.

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2005 Bluebell Railway Santa Specials 2008 http://train.fotopic.net/c1621006.html A selection of pictures from the Bluebell Railway Santa Specials 2008. Saturday 6 December 2008: A selection of pictures from the Bluebell Railway Santa Specials 2008.

53809 leaves Sheffield Park with a Santa Special. 06.12.2008 9017 climbs away from Sheffield Park with a Santa Pullman train, featuring the new formation. 07.12.2008 Taken with a very long lens, the setting sun shines through Three Arch Bridge as 53809 climbs towards Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 07.12.2008 9017 arrives at Kingscote with the Sunday lunchtime Santa Pullman. 07.12.2008 As the low winter sun sinks below the horizon it gives the train a golden glow. 53809 climbs towards Horsted Keynes with a Santa Special. 07.12.2008 53809 arrives at Kingscote with a Santa Special. 07.12.2008 Having been advised of submarines lurking outside Kingscote station 80151 made smoke before leaving... It is in there somewhere.... 07.12.2008 Ah, here is it... 80151 leaves Kingscote with a Santa Special. 07.12.2008 If you get the angles right at Horsted Keynes the evening sun can produce some pleasing colours. 53809 steams north towards the station. 07.12.2008 A shaft of low midday sun catches 5199 as it arrives at Kingscote with a Santa Special. 06.12.2008 9017 tackles the run-round at Kingscote with some enthusiasm. Thanks for the nice photo opportunity! 07.12.2008 5199 leaves Sheffield Park in the evening light with a Santa Special. 06.12.2008 53809 makes smoke signals whilst leaving Sheffield Park with a Santa Special. 06.12.2008 9017 reverses on to the Golden Arrow at Sheffield Park. 07.12.2008 9017 steams gently whilst awaiting departure from Sheffield Park with the Golden Arrow. 07.12.2008 The very last shafts of golden light of the day strike 80151 as it leaves Horsted Keynes with an evening Santa Special. 07.12.2008 Santa and his elves at Kingscote with 53809. 06.12.2008 Santa's Grotto at Kingscote. 06.12.2008 Can you twirl a plate, give a thumbs up sign and stand on one leg whilst wearing a multi-coloured suit? This talent will shortly be added to the job description of Bluebell Railway Directors in view of their constant requirement to multi-task.... 06.12.2008 Santa's Grotto at Kingscote. 06.12.2008 A rather small version of Stepney was available for younger visitors. 06.12.2008 Santa's elves have to look after the crews too. Anyone want a mince pie? 07.12.2008 Emu was very popular with the younger visitors, and what a nice smile. Kingscote 07.12.2008 Happy childen in Santa's Grotto at Kingscote. 07.12.2008 Another shy encounter with Emu at Kingscote. 07.12.2008 A happy customer in Santa's Grotto at Kingscote. 07.12.2008 The low winter sun produces unusual colours as 80151 returns to Sheffield Park at dusk. 06.12.2008 5199 runs round at Sheffield Park. 06.12.2008 53809 leaves Kingscote. 06.12.2008 The crew of 5199 surrender the single line token at Kingscote signal box. 06.12.2008 9017 steams north from Sheffield Park. 07.12.2008 With the moon in the sky above, 80151 steams south from Horsted Keynes in the evening light. 07.12.2008 Keeping a good look out from 9017 outside Sheffield Park. 07.12.2008 Braziers were set ablaze on the platforms to ensure that the water columns did not freeze in the cold weather. (It is necessary to spell this instruction very carefuly to avoid misunderstanding). 07.12.2008 The smiling team at Kingscote. 06.12.2008 The roundabout at Sheffield Park was still in action well after dusk. 06.12.2008 The sweet stall at Sheffield Park was popular. 06.12.2008 The Christmas tree at Sheffield Park. 06.12.2008 The festive platform at Horsted Keynes. 07.12.2008 The Christmas tree in the booking hall at Horsted Keynes. 07.12.2008 The Christmas tree in the booking hall at Sheffield Park. 06.12.2008 The waiting room at Kingscote. 06.12.2008 Festive lights on the drive at Sheffield Park. 06.12.2008 An appropriate sign at Kingscote. 07.12.2008 A shaft of low evening sun just catches 9017 as it stands on reserve in Sheffield Park Shed. The boiler from Birch Grove is in the background. 06.12.2008 Part of the new Pullman formation outside Sheffield Park Shed. 06.12.2008 Fenchurch was providing the steam heating for the Pullman prior to it going into service. Sheffield Park Shed 06.12.2008 Gasp! The USA tank has been moved from it's lowly position in the back siding and is now outside the works at Sheffield Park Shed. 06.12.2008 Concerned at the increasing cost of diesel fuel, management have converted the shunter to coal, but the new BR black livery has yet to be applied to the tender. 07.12.2008

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]]> Sat Dec 6 2008 Marshlink Line - Tour 4 - Rye Station http://train.fotopic.net/c1614542.html Rye Station was opened on 13 February 1851, and serves a significant town popular with visitors. Trains on the Marshlink line commonly pass here, for which purpose double track has been retained at the station. The signal box that controls the Marshlink Line from Appledore to Ore is also sited here. A separate branch was originally provided to Rye Harbour, opening in 1854 and closing on 29 January 1960. The Harbour branch was approached from the west and NOT from the station. This branch is not currently featured in the photographic collection. Saturday 1 January 2005: Rye Station was opened on 13 February 1851, and serves a significant town popular with visitors. Trains on the Marshlink line commonly pass here, for which purpose double track has been retained at the station. The signal box that controls the Marshlink Line from Appledore to Ore is also sited here. A separate branch was originally provided to Rye Harbour, opening in 1854 and closing on 29 January 1960. The Harbour branch was approached from the west and NOT from the station. This branch is not currently featured in the photographic collection.

Rye Station undoubtedly has the most impressive building on the line, although the station name above the middle arch is very hard to see. This view looks north on 20.09.2008 A second view of Rye Station building looking north east. Two sidings originally ran behind the westbound platform right up to the wall of the building, the outermost siding passing through a large goods shed which stood on part of the road that now forms the one-way system approaching the station. The goods shed closed in 1963 and was demolished in 1984. 20.09.2008 Opening up the view of Rye Station building and looking north, the Southern Region added a parcels office to the right hand side of the building that was much in keeping with the original structure. It is no longer used for that purpose. 20.09.2008 A close up of the former parcels office at Rye Station shows that it is now being used by the appropriately named Fat Controller cafe. In the interests of accurate reporting I sampled the food, which was very good. 20.09.2008 Looking west at the platform side of Rye Station building in 2005, with the signal box on the right. In common with many stations on this line the platforms are staggered, and trains normally pass here. 08.08.2005 Turbostars 171727 and 171729 demonstrate the passing movement at Rye Station. 171727 awaits departure westbound, whilst 171729 heads for the staggered eastbound platform with a service to Ashford International. 08.08.2005 A second view of the westbound platform at Rye Station, this time in 2008, shows the view little changed. Unusually for stations in this area a footbridge was provided, which enhances safety at a location where two train movements take place at almost the same time. 20.09.2008 Changing angle slightly this westbound view looks in more detail at the main Rye Station building and, excluding the former parcels office, it can be seen that the main building has three distinct segments; a main building and two wings at either end. 20.09.2008 Looking west with a slightly longer lens the level crossing at the western end of Rye Station is Ferry Road, and beyond that the railway crosses the River Tillingham. When the whole line was double track there was a footbridge beyond the level crossing for the convenience of pedestrians but this has since been removed. 20.09.2008 Looking east from the western end of the westbound platform at Rye Station. The staggered eastbound platform can be seen beyond the footbridge, and the signal box is on the left. There was originally a siding on the left, running in front of the signal box, and on the right behind the fence there were additional sidings and a goods shed. 20.09.2008 In 2005, Turbostar 171727 waits to depart for Hastings, having just passed the eastbound service, which can be seen standing at the eastbound platform in the background. Rye Station 08.08.2005 Slightly further up the platform, and without a train in shot, this view looks east towards the eastbound platform at Rye Station on 08.08.2005 Another older picture from 2005 looks west from the end of the westbound platform. Note the catch points and sand drag to prevent trains entering the single line section west of Rye Station before the eastbound service has arrived. The purpose of the two sheds at the end of the platform is unknown. 08.08.2005 A second view west from Rye Station with a slightly longer lens, taken in 2008, shows the points and level crossing over Ferry Road more clearly. In contrast to other crossings on the line this one has double lifting barriers. When gates were installed a signal box stood on the left, beyond the two sheds, and controlled the operation of the gates. 20.09.2008 Looking west with a long lens from the footbridge at Rye Station gives a clearer view along the line. A pedestrian crosses the level crossing and in the far distance the parapet of the bridge over the River Tillingham can just be seen. A siding originally ran alongside the line on the right of the picture as far west as the level crossing. 20.09.2008 The windmill adjacent to the bridge over the River Tillingham is a well known local landmark. Other references suggest that in the past it has been used as a pottery and a guest house. Beyond the river bridge a branch curved south to Rye Harbour, trains approaching this branch from the west and not from the direction of Rye Station. 20.09.2008 The main buildings at Rye Station looking west through the footbridge. Note the vertical boards on the platform ramp on the left to prevent passengers taking a short cut across the track. The path on the right leads to the signal box, a gate being provided at the end of the platform. 20.09.2008 In 2005 Turbostar 171727 approaches the westbound platform at Rye Station prior to passing the eastbound service. The coach and car park on the right was originally a goods yard, with a loading dock. On the extreme right the buildings were a cattle market. 08.08.2005 A view west from the eastbound platform at Rye Station. Note the remains of an engineer's siding on the left (the points having been removed). A banner repeater is provided for westbound services owing to restricted sighting of the signal. 20.09.2008 Slightly further east along the eastbound platform at Rye Station, and still looking west. Facilities on this platform have always been limited, but a small shelter is provided. The footbridge was erected in 1960, when electrification of the line was considered, but the plan was later dropped. 20.09.2008 Looking west from the eastern end of Rye Station on 20.09.2008. The path on the right, behind the fence, provides alternative access to the station from Rope Walk, and also serves as level disabled access to eastbound services. It is, however, rather a long way round, an inevitable consequence of staggered platforms. On the left the car park occupies the former goods yard. This older picture, looking west in 2005, shows the coach park heavily used, and the siding intact although severed from the main line. Latterly an engineer's siding this was originally the entrance to this section of the goods yard. Rye Station 08.08.2005 Turbostar 171729 stands at the eastbound platform at Rye Station waiting to depart for Ashford. It has just passed the westbound service, but the signal has not yet cleared. 08.08.2005 This old shot, taken from Rye Station footbridge in 2005, clearly shows the former siding. The land on the right used for coach and car parking was formerly occupied by three sidings, a double sided water crane for steam engines, a huge water tower to supply the water, loading docks, and a wagon weighbridge. 08.08.2005 The same shot in 2008 shows the siding lifted. Before the footbridge was built the site between the two platforms at Rye Station was occupied by wagon turntables. These allowed wagons in the siding adjacent to the signal box to be turned through ninety degrees and wheeled at right angles across the main line. They could then be turned again in the southern goods yard and placed in the appropriate siding. These turntables were removed many years ago, and replaced by a pedestrian foot crossing at track level. Subsequently the footbridge was provided. 20.09.2008 Looking east from the eastbound platform at Rye Station. The loading dock in the goods yard stood approximately where the white coach is parked, with the cattle market on the right. 20.09.2008 Looking east at the eastbound platform at Rye Station from the westbound platform. On the extreme left the white gate gives access to the signal box. Note the original waiting shelter and canopy. 20.09.2008 The original waiting shelter on the eastbound platform at Rye Station. A Gents was originally provided on the right hand side of the shelter. The sign says Rye, Ancient Town, Cinque Port. 20.09.2008 Looking east from the eastern end of Rye Station. The notice reminds drivers to check the signal aspect before departing from this passing point. Ending up in the sand drag is unlikely to enhance your career. 20.09.2008 Looking east at Rope Walk level crossing with a long lens from Rye Station footbridge. This crossing also has double barriers. On the left the roof of the old crossing keeper's cottage can be seen, and on the right one of the buffer stops from the old goods yard remains in situ. 20.09.2008 The same view of Rope Walk level crossing, but this time looking east from the eastbound platform at Rye Station. The tall Cab Secure Radio tower can be seen beyond the crossing. 20.09.2008 An older view of Rope Walk level crossing taken from the same point on Rye Station on 08.08.2005 Rye signal box, looking north from the westbound platform on 08.08.2005. A siding originally ran in front of the signal box. A later view of the signal box at Rye Station, looking north on 20.09.2008 The west end of Rye signal box. The box was built in 1893 and is still operational, controlling the single line sections from Appledore and Ore. The exact boundary of the area controlled by the box is unknown. Can anyone assist? 20.09.2008 The eastern end of Rye signal box. The building apparently originally contained 30 levers, but the semaphore signals have now given way to colour lights which are presumably capable of automatic operation given the regularity of train movements. 20.09.2008

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2005 Dungeness Branch - Tour 5 - Dungeness Terminal and Dungeness Station (Closed) http://train.fotopic.net/c1613102.html Dungeness Station was opened on 7 December 1881 for freight services, but there was no passenger use until 1 April 1883. The station was very close to Dungeness Station on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway which opened in August 1928. However there was little time to exchange passengers because the main Dungeness Station closed to passengers on 4 July 1937, when the Southern Railway opened a realignment of the remainder of the branch towards New Romney. Freight services ceased in the 1950s and the line was lifted. Part of the old embankment now supports the access road to Dungeness nuclear power station, and a secure terminal has been constructed at the end of the current line to handle freight related to the power station. Saturday 1 January 2005: Dungeness Station was opened on 7 December 1881 for freight services, but there was no passenger use until 1 April 1883. The station was very close to Dungeness Station on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway which opened in August 1928. However there was little time to exchange passengers because the main Dungeness Station closed to passengers on 4 July 1937, when the Southern Railway opened a realignment of the remainder of the branch towards New Romney. Freight services ceased in the 1950s and the line was lifted. Part of the old embankment now supports the access road to Dungeness nuclear power station, and a secure terminal has been constructed at the end of the current line to handle freight related to the power station.

One might think that the freight line to Dungeness would actually go there, but instead it terminates in the middle of Denge Marsh, at a windswept and isolated spot called Halfway Bush. It is an appropriate name. This is the secure sidings where material for the nuclear power station is handled, looking east. For reasons of security I have not provided any close up pictures. 27.09.2008 A second view of the secure sidings looking west. The original Dungeness branch ran through what is now the secure site, out of the gates on the left, and followed what is now the approach road to the power station. It is assumed that the railway embankment across the marsh was needed as a firm base for the power station road. On the right of the picture the area of shingle marks the approximate position where the second branch to Lydd-on-Sea and New Romney curved away east. There was no obvious way to photograph the site of the old junction, and a preliminary inspection of the remainder of the New Romney branch revealed few surviving features. The trackbed does, however, still show up clearly on Google Earth. At ground level it is less obvious. 27.09.2008 Moving to the old Dungeness Station and looking north, it is now hard to distinguish the station site in the bleak landscape. The arrow indicates the hump in the shingle which marks the position of the old platform. The station closed to passengers in 1937. 27.09.2008 Coming closer to the old platform at Dungeness Station, still looking north, it becomes possible to distinguish some features. 27.09.2008 At the entrance to the old Dungeness Station platform a single vertical rail and fence post survive. 27.09.2008 On the shingle mound which was Dungeness Station platform, and looking north, a small area of foundations marks the position of the small station building. 27.09.2008 Looking north from the old platform at Dungeness Station the slightly raised embankment shows the route of the old track. The main branch line ran almost straight, heading through what is now the clump of bushes. The deviation in the shingle path is explained by three sidings that turned right to serve a ballast pit. These are clearly shown on a 1907 map. 27.09.2008 Using a slightly longer lens, and looking beyond the line of bushes in the previous picture the overhead crane at the end of the current line can just be made out on the sky line (arrowed) in the middle of the marsh. The lifted branch line headed straight for it. 27.09.2008 Just to the left (west) of the route of the old track bed is this isolated building surrounded by an embankment. On old maps it is described as Dungeness Coastguard Station (formerly a Lloyds Signal Station). I admire the courage of the person who put their washing out in the wind.... 27.09.2008 Now looking south along Dungeness Station platform, the track was on the left, the vertical posts marking the position of the platform edge. 27.09.2008 The old track bed adjacent to Dungeness Station platform is now a path. A running round loop was provided, and at the southern end of the station a gated Admiralty Siding was provided in what is now a car park. 27.09.2008 Dungeness Old Lighthouse stands at the southern end of the old station site. When the power station was built it became obvious that the light would be blocked from view by the height of the power station buildings and a new lighthouse was constructed a short distance away. The old lighthouse is open to visitors on some days and has it's own website. 27.09.2008 Looking east the new lighthouse is in the background, whilst in the foreground a train stands at Dungeness Station on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway. RHDR trains do not reverse here; they travel in a large loop and end up facing in the correct direction to return towards New Romney. 27.09.2008 A closer view of the new (operational) lighthouse at Dungeness, whilst to the left of the building is a vital resource in the bleak surroundings; a public house. 27.09.2008

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2005 Bluebell Railway Wizard Weekend 2008 http://train.fotopic.net/c1600865.html The Bluebell Railway Wizard Weekend 2008 took place on 25 and 26 October 2008. A selection of pictures, including an update from Sheffield Park Shed at the end of the collection. I took a number of additional photographs at the Fancy Dress Competition; please contact me for free copies if you child is pictured. Saturday 25 October 2008: The Bluebell Railway Wizard Weekend 2008 took place on 25 and 26 October 2008. A selection of pictures, including an update from Sheffield Park Shed at the end of the collection. I took a number of additional photographs at the Fancy Dress Competition; please contact me for free copies if you child is pictured.

Some passengers at Horsted Keynes had clearly been waiting for some time..... 25.10.2008 Unfortunately the railway could only provide a Skeleton Service. 25.10.2008 65 had some additional crew members. Kingscote 25.10.2008 It was a perfectly normal day at Kingscote.... 25.10.2008 When I joined the railway I never imagined they would ask me to do this.... 25.10.2008 Fancy Dress Competition, Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Owing to a misunderstanding, some passengers were still waiting for a connection to Ardingly. 25.10.2008 65 arrives at Kingscote with a service train. 25.10.2008 80151 was operating the Wizard Express. 25.10.2008 65 climbs towards Ketches Halt. 25.10.2008 80151 returns to Horsted Keynes with the Wizard Express. 25.10.2008 65 arives at Kingscote. 25.10.2008 65 arrives at Kingscote southern signal box with a service train. 25.10.2008 Witches on both platforms as 80151 arrives at Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 65 makes an impressive departure from Sheffield Park. 25.10.2008 The BR black of 80151 was enhanced by a large number of magical golden stars. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 65 waits to run round at Sheffield Park. 25.10.2008 65 had some additional crew members. Kingscote 25.10.2008 Taking water on 65 at Sheffield Park. 25.10.2008 Taking water on 65 at Sheffield Park. 25.10.2008 A scary face painting. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 The face painting and magic departments pause for a photograph. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 The wizard show, with a scary companion in the background. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 A wicked witch. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 The wizard show was so popular that the smaller members of the audience had to sit on the floor at the front. 25.10.2008 A charming lady in a fetching hat was looking after the Carriage and Wagon exhibition. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 The face painting in full swing. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 New uniforms for door staff at the Bessemer Arms are on trial at Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Wall decorations at Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Two satisfied customers from the face painting. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 A wizard and his scary assistant at Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Fancy Dress Competition, Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Fancy Dress Competition, Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Fancy Dress Competition, Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Fancy Dress Competition, Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Fancy Dress Competition, Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Fancy Dress Competition, Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Fancy Dress Competition, Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 If she thinks that she will be claiming for that hat on expenses, she has another think coming..... 80151 Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008. Or.... I wonder how soon I can arrange a crew change? (Captions contributed with thanks). The scary subway. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008. (It was actually a bit darker than this but I had to have some light for the pictures. There were also lots of strange noises). The scary subway. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008. (It was actually a bit darker than this but I had to have some light for the pictures. There were also lots of strange noises). The scary subway. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008 The scary subway. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008. (It was actually a bit darker than this but I had to have some light for the pictures. There were also lots of strange noises). The scary subway. Horsted Keynes 25.10.2008. (It was actually a bit darker than this but I had to have some light for the pictures. There were also lots of strange noises). The scary ticket office at Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Ticket inspection at Horsted Keynes. 25.10.2008 Ticket inspection at Sheffield Park. 25.10.2008 Decorations in the ticket office at Sheffield Park. 25.10.2008 Decorations in the ticket office at Sheffield Park. 25.10.2008 5199 was on the locomotive roster, but it remained on shed, and 80151 turned out instead. Sheffield Park 25.10.2008

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]]> Sat Oct 25 2008 Bluebell Railway Autumn Steam Gala 2008 http://train.fotopic.net/c1597057.html Pictures of the Bluebell Railway Autumn Steam Gala, which was held on 17 - 19 October 2008. The collection is in random (not date) order. Friday 17 October 2008: Pictures of the Bluebell Railway Autumn Steam Gala, which was held on 17 - 19 October 2008. The collection is in random (not date) order.

53809 approaches Birch Farm foot crossing with the Pines Express. 18.10.2008 80151 steams south from Birch Farm foot crossing. 18.10.2008 53809 hauls a service train north towards Horsted Keynes station, with the southbound Advance Starter in the foreground. 17.10.2008 65 and 1638 double head a northbound train towards Birch Farm foot crossing. 18.10.2008 53809 gives a steam display as it leaves Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 5199 passes the southbound bracket signal outside Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 53809 rounds the curve from Sloop Bridge. 17.10.2008 80151 leaves Horsted Keynes with a southbound service. 17.10.2008 53809 approaches the ruined Town Place Farm accommodation bridge with a northbound train. 17.10.2008 5199 steams north over Poleay Bridge. 17.10.2008 80151 steams south from Ketches Halt. 17.10.2008 5199 gives a steam display at Leamland Bridge with a northbound service. 17.10.2008 53809 poses at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 approaches Birch Farm foot crossing with the Pines Express. 18.10.2008 65 and 1638 run round at Kingscote whilst preparing to double head a departing train. 18.10.2008 80151 passes the Sheffield Park northbound Advance Starter. 17.10.2008 53809 steams north from the southern signal box at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 5199 arrives at Kingscote with a service train. 18.10.2008 5199 approaches Kingscote with a northbound train. 18.10.2008 53809 arrives at Kingscote with a service train. 18.10.2008 Heads look out from every coach to watch the signalman collect the single line token at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 65 and 1638 double head a train towards Birch Farm foot crossing. 18.10.2008 53809 gives a steam display as it climbs from Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 5199 climbs away from Poleay Bridge towards Ketches Halt. 17.10.2008 5199 steams north from Leamland Bridge. 17.10.2008 53809 steams south over Poleay Bridge. 17.10.2008 53809 steams south towards the bracket signal outside Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 53809 waits at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 waits at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 5199 waits at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 5199 waits at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 5199 steams away from Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 53809 runs round at Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 53809 prepares to surrender the single line token at Kingscote signal box. 18.10.2008 5199 climbs towards Ketches Halt. 17.10.2008 53809 round the curve from Three Arch Bridge, en route to Horsted Keynes. 17.10.2008 53809 crosses Poleay Bridge with a northbound service. 17.10.2008 Sunlight catches the steam as 53809 moves down the platform at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 53809 waits at Kingscote. 18.10.2008 On the last trip of the day from Kingscote 53809 came to a shuddering halt with steam going everywhere, but it was soon moving again. 18.10.2008 53809 gets under way again. Kingscote 18.10.2008 Trailing steam, 53809 leaves Kingscote. 18.10.2008 RML2317 was providing the bus service from Kingscote to East Grinstead. 18.10.2008 RML2317 was providing the bus service from Kingscote to East Grinstead. 18.10.2008 Unfortunately Jinty was out of service for the whole event having been failed before it's test on the shunting turn on Thursday. Sheffield Park Shed 17.10.2008 A glimpse of 592 under repair. The engine has suffered a hot axle box. Sheffield Park Shed 17.10.2008 75027 and 92240 were on display at Sheffield Park. 17.10.2008 Stepney was available at Sheffield Park for footplate visits. 17.10.2008 Normandy was on display having returned from it's travels. Sheffield Park Shed 17.10.2008 21C123 on display outside Sheffield Park Shed 17.10.2008

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]]> Fri Oct 17 2008 Dungeness Branch - Tour 3 - Boarmans Crossing; Tillery Crossing; Fielders Crossing; Coldharbour Crossing; Midley Crossing; Swamp Crossing; and Caldicott Crossing http://train.fotopic.net/c1595750.html Level crossings on the Dungeness Branch between Brookland Station (or Brookland Halt) and Lydd Town Station (formerly Lydd Station), listed from west to east. The total number of crossings on this branch is listed in some reference works as 14, but this is not really an accurate reflection of the number of crossing points as agricultural facilities and foot crossings also have to be considered. Some of the road crossings no longer have any value except to adjacent properties. Saturday 1 January 2005: Level crossings on the Dungeness Branch between Brookland Station (or Brookland Halt) and Lydd Town Station (formerly Lydd Station), listed from west to east. The total number of crossings on this branch is listed in some reference works as 14, but this is not really an accurate reflection of the number of crossing points as agricultural facilities and foot crossings also have to be considered. Some of the road crossings no longer have any value except to adjacent properties.

Continuing east from the former station at Brookland Halt, it is only a short distance to Boarmans Crossing. This shot looks back west towards the Brookland level crossing and the former station building can be seen in the distance. A whistle sign is needed because of the poor sight lines on the curve towards the main road. The train is required to stop before continuing west over the A259 at Brookland level crossing. 08.10.2008 Pulling back the long lens, this is the actual view from Boarmans Crossing west towards the former Brookland Halt. 08.10.2008 Boarmans Crossing looking north. Unlike other crossings on the line the road at this crossing is in good order, but the crossing is quiet and seems little used. 08.10.2008 A close up of the sign at Boarmans Crossing. 08.10.2008 Boarmans Crossing looking south. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Boarmans Crossing towards Dungeness. The crossings in this area are so closely spaced that the warning board for the next crossing is easily seen. 08.10.2008 Looking east with a slightly longer lens the standard signage for the crossings is clearly displayed. The black cross warning board is situated at braking distance from the crossing, and immediately followed by 5mph and Whistle boards. In practice the train will hardly have picked up speed from the previous 5mph restriction. Boarmans Crossing 08.10.2008 Looking east from Boarmans Crossing with an even longer lens Tillery Crossing can be seen clearly, but also in shot is the subsequent warning board for Fielders Crossing which can be distinguished in the distance. 08.10.2008 Now at Tillery Crossing this view looks back west to Boarmans Crossing, and indeed the former Brookland Station is still close enough to be seen in the distance. The 5mph and Whistle sign are hidden behind the crossing warning sign, but I doubt that a returning driver would need any further reminder. 08.10.2008 Reducing the zoom this is the actual view west from Tillery Crossing towards Boarmans Crossing. A vertical rail on the right is a relic of some former branch sign. 08.10.2008 Tillery Crossing has a smart modern sign, but it could do with a clean. Having already seen graffiti dated 1992 at a previous crossing I am not too optimistic of early attention. 08.10.2008 Tillery Crossing looking north. The local authority have erected a sign warning that this lane is unsuitable for motor vehicles and they are not joking. Don't even consider going down there in a car. It is so bad that a nearby property has to bring their dustbin over the crossing. 08.10.2008 A close up of the signs at Tillery Crossing. Whilst the Give Way signage is fairly standard the Beware of Trains legend in the background varies from crossing to crossing. 08.10.2008 Looking south over Tillery Crossing from the sub-standard lane. 08.10.2008 Tillery Crossing looking west towards Fielders Crossing. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Tillery Crossing with a longer lens Fielders Crossing can be seen clearly, beyond the usual warning signs. I assume the railings in the foreground to be a culvert. 08.10.2008 Now at Fielders Crossing looking back west to Tillery Crossing. Boarmans Crossing and the former Brookland Station can still be seen in the distance. 08.10.2008 Pulling back the zoom this is the actual view west from Fielders Crossing. As with the previous crossing the vertical rail on the right is an unknown relic of the past. 08.10.2008 There was a very bright new sign at Fielders Crossing, but they could have cleaned the poles! 08.10.2008 Fielders Crossing looking north. This lane is also (absolutely) unsuitable for motor vehicles beyond the crossing but the local authority sign is further back down the lane and out of shot. There is an unusual Beware of Trains sign on the right which is certainly not of current design, but it would be hard to miss the crossing. The track beyond the crossing gives access to Coldharbour Farm. 08.10.2008 A close up of the sign at Fielders Crossing. 08.10.2008 Fielders Crossing looking south from the sub-standard lane. 08.10.2008 A view north down the sub-standard lane that leads from Fielders Crossing as it starts to deteriorate. 08.10.2008 The area of Fielders Crossing was infested with rabbits, but only one shy one agreed to pose in the lane. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Fielders Crossing towards Dungeness. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Fielders Crossing with a longer lens the warning board for an agricultural crossing west of Coldharbour Farm comes into view, but the actual crossing is out of sight around a curve. This is the first of several agricultural and foot crossings in the area but there is absolutely no vehicular access (unless you have a tractor handy). A subsequent visit will be made to this area on foot. The rabbits were still keeping an eye on me. I was probably the first human they had seen for weeks.... 08.10.2008 The road crossing called Coldharbour Crossing is actually some distance east of Coldharbour Farm. This view looks back west in the direction of the farm, but the buildings are out of sight. West of this crossing are a number of agricultural and foot crossings near Coldharbour Farm. Subsequently the line curves round to Fielders Crossing previously pictured. I will make a further visit to this area on foot in due course. 08.10.2008 Sorry, but the tatty temporary sign at Coldharbour Crossing gets no points at all. It could well have been there since at least 1992. It is actually on the back of an old level crossing warning cross sign (seen in the background of the next picture). Time for a new one. 08.10.2008 Coldharbour Crossing looking north. The mud was contributed by the local farmer who was working in the adjacent field. 08.10.2008 The signs at Coldharbour Crossing, which has a Beware of Trains sign to modern specification. Someone appeared to have been shooting at this sign, especially the black steam train. 08.10.2008 Coldharbour Crossing looking south. Yes, I did block the road to take the photos but the local lanes are not exactly busy (tractors excluded). 08.10.2008 Coldharbour Crossing looking east towards Dungeness. 08.10.2008 Coldharbour Crossing looking east with a long lens. The Whistle instruction may relate to a couple of agricultural crossings that are located before the next road crossing. 08.10.2008 The next public road crossing is Midley Crossing. This view west from the crossing with a long lens shows a foot crossing, with a warning board for a vehicular crossing beyond it. Neither of these crossings appear on maps as public rights of way and appear to be agricultural facilities, which have not been visited. Further information would be welcome. 08.10.2008 Midley Crossing looking west with a normal lens. 08.10.2008 The sign for Midley Crossing unfortunately cannot be photographed properly from any position to which the public have access. 08.10.2008 Midley Crossing looking north. The mud is from a farm access adjacent to the crossing. 08.10.2008 The Midley Crossing signs. The camera is straight but the signs are not! 08.10.2008 Midley Crossing looking south. This is a wider, more frequently used road which offers an alternative way to and from Lydd. However whilst on site it was alarming to watch the traffic shoot over the diagonal crossing with little or no pause. Perhaps the very infrequent train movements give a false sense of security to regular users of the road. 08.10.2008 Midley Crossing looking east towards Dungeness. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Midley Crossing with a long lens. A foot crossing is in the foreground. The warning board for Swamp Crossing is just over the hump in the track, but it is quite difficult to see. 08.10.2008 Between Midley Crossing and Swamp Crossing there is a ruined church on the north side of the line. The site is reached by a public foot crossing over the line, but there is little of the church building still standing. 08.10.2008 Swamp Crossing looking west with a long lens towards Midley Crossing, which is concealed by the hump in the track. There are two foot crossings in shot. One is a public footpath leading to the ruined church previously pictured and the other is not shown as a public right of way, and is assumed to be an agricultural facility. 08.10.2008 The actual view west from Swamp Crossing without the aid of a long lens. 08.10.2008 Swamp Crossing has a sign of standard construction. It is not a particularly attractive name, but it is, no doubt, traditional. The area to the west is Walland Marsh. 08.10.2008 Swamp Crossing looking north. The crossing was one of the better maintained crossings on the branch, the road forming a route between Lydd and the village of Old Romney. As is obvious, a farmer had been working in the field on the left. 08.10.2008 A slightly bent sign at Swamp Crossing 08.10.2008 Swamp Crossing looking south as a light shower drifted over. The tall pylons in the background serve the power station. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Swamp Crossing towards Dungeness. The mileposts on the line were all rather neglected. 08.10.2008 The same view east from Swamp Crossing, but with a long lens. There are two foot crossings in shot, neither of which is recorded as a public right of way. These are assumed to be agricultural facilities. Beyond them the warning board for Caldicott Crossing can be seen. 08.10.2008

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2005 Dungeness Branch - Tour 1 - Snargate Crossing; Grove Lane Crossing; Bowdell Crossing; and King Street Crossing http://train.fotopic.net/c1595493.html Level crossings on the Dungeness Branch between Appledore Station and Brookland Station (or Brookland Halt), listed running west to east. The total number of crossings on this branch is listed in some reference works as 14, but this is not really an accurate reflection of the number of crossing points as agricultural facilities and foot crossings also have to be considered. Some of the road crossings no longer have any value except to adjacent properties. Saturday 1 January 2005: Level crossings on the Dungeness Branch between Appledore Station and Brookland Station (or Brookland Halt), listed running west to east. The total number of crossings on this branch is listed in some reference works as 14, but this is not really an accurate reflection of the number of crossing points as agricultural facilities and foot crossings also have to be considered. Some of the road crossings no longer have any value except to adjacent properties.

Snargate Crossing is the first of many crossings on the Dungeness Branch. This view looks west as the line curves round from the junction south of Appledore Station. One of many drainage channels passes under the line adjacent to the crossing and the tiny yellow triangle in the bottom left hand corner of the photo tells workers that this is a Legally Protected Environment Site. They need to check with their supervisor before doing any work. 08.10.2008 All the road crossings on the line are named (presumably to prevent confusion between the numerous different crossings) but Snargate Crossing has a temporary sign. Nothing unusual in that, except that the sign carried graffiti dated 30.9.1992. Delivery of the new sign is, no doubt, in hand? 08.10.2008 Snargate Crossing looking north, with the drainage channel on the left. The sight lines at this crossing are much better than elsewhere. 08.10.2008 Snargate Crossing looking south. 08.10.2008 One of the amusing features of the crossings is that the supplier of the Network Rail crossing names is frequently at variance with the firm who supplied the blue signs for the road traffic. In this case the sign wrongly states Snar Gate Crossing. It gets worse further down the line... 08.10.2008 Snargate Crossing looking east towards Dungeness. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Snargate Crossing with a longer lens. The next crossing point is a public footpath that leads south from the village of Snargate to the north of the line, and from which the crossing gets it's name. 08.10.2008 Changing angle slightly, the close proximity of the crossings on the line can be seen. Trains are warned of ungated crossings by the black cross on a white background, the sign being installed at braking distance from the crossing. Warnings for the next two crossings can be seen in this view. Snargate Crossing 08.10.2008 The reverse of the previous view looking back from Grove Lane Crossing towards Snargate crossing, with the public footpath from Snargate the nearest visible crossing point. 08.10.2008 Pulling back, the actual view west from Grove Lane Crossing without the aid of a long lens. 08.10.2008 Grove Lane Crossing has a proper sign, although it could do with a clean. The original level crossing gate post can be seen clearly, the only such relic found at the crossings. This presumably dates from the time when the branch was carrying passenger traffic. 08.10.2008 Grove Lane Crossing looking south. Please note that Grove Lane is in such a poor condition that it is NOT suitable for ordinary vehicles from either direction. It is probably only used by occasional farm vehicles for access to adjacent fields. 08.10.2008 The signs at Grove Lane Crossing reflect the general neglected state of the road. 08.10.2008 Turning round, this is the view north from the crossing. Ordinary cars WILL ground in this lane owing to deep ruts and a raised central surface. Grove Lane Crossing 08.10.2008 Grove Lane Crossing looking north across the crossing. The need for this crossing has to be marginal at best. 08.10.2008 Turning round, this is the view south from Grove Lane Crossing. This part of the road is in terrible condition, and it is little better than a bridleway. It is NOT suitable for cars. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Grove Lane Crossing, with Bowdell Crossing in the distance. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Grove Lane Crossing with a longer lens, the warning signs for Bowdell Crossing can be seen. Slightly obscured are a 5mph speed restriction (this applies on all crossings) and a Whistle symbol. 08.10.2008 The reverse of the previous view, looking west from Bowdell Crossing back towards Grove Lane Crossing with a long lens. 08.10.2008 Pulling back, this is the normal view west from Bowdell Crossing 08.10.2008 Bowdell Crossing has a nice modern sign, but they could have painted the poles! The crossing takes it's name from an adjacent farm on the north side of the line. 08.10.2008 Bowdell Crossing looking north. In this case the person making the blue sign has decided to call it Bowdel Crossing. You only have to look at the map to get it right.... 08.10.2008 The rather shaded southbound approach to Bowdell Crossing. 08.10.2008 Bowdell Crossing looking south. A public footpath also crosses the line diagonally at this crossing and can be seen emerging from the trees on the right. 08.10.2008 Slightly awkward sight lines caused by adjacent trees result in offset warning signs on the southbound road approach to Bowdell Crossing. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Bowdell Crossing towards Dungeness. 08.10.2008 Looking east from Bowdell Crossing with a longer lens the warning signs for King Street Crossing can be seen. 08.10.2008 Now at King Street Crossing this view looks back west. Bowdell Crossing is around the bend. 08.10.2008 A second view west from King Street Crossing without a long lens. A drainage channel passes under the railway adjacent to the crossing. 08.10.2008 King Street Crossing looking north. The road runs in parallel to the A259 and forms a route to the village of Brenzett. 08.10.2008 Signage at King Street Crossing. Unfortunately someone had stolen the main crossing nameplate adjacent to the track. 08.10.2008 King Street Crossing, looking south. This was one of the few crossings where I saw another vehicle, but it was a gentleman on a bicycle... 08.10.2008 King Street Crossing looking west. Two empty poles on the right should carry the name of the crossing, but the nameplate was nowhere to be seen. Looking at the dirt on the poles the plate may have gone missing some time ago. 08.10.2008 Looking east from King Street Crossing with a long lens. The next road crossing is at the former Brooklands Halt, but the Whistle sign and crossing warning board probably refer to a footpath and bridleway which crosses the track around the bend, west of Brooklands Halt. 08.10.2008

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2005 Bluebell Railway Autumn Tints 2008 http://train.fotopic.net/c1593432.html A collection featuring pictures from the Bluebell Railway Autumn Tints 2008 trains, together with some scenes around Sheffield Park Shed. Friday 10 October 2008: A collection featuring pictures from the Bluebell Railway Autumn Tints 2008 trains, together with some scenes around Sheffield Park Shed.

672 Fenchurch steams south near Tremains Crossing. 10.10.2008 672 Fenchurch steams north into Horsted Keynes. 10.10.2008 672 Fenchurch hauls the Observation Car back towards Sheffield Park. 10.10.2008 With the crew leaning out and looking through the glass 672 Fenchurch steams north towards Three Arch Bridge. 10.10.2008 80151 approaches Leamland Bridge with the Sussex Belle Pullman. 10.10.2008 80151 draws forward from the bracket signal at Sheffield Park. 10.10.2008 672 Fenchurch steams south from Tremains foot crossing. 10.10.2008 80151 approaches the site of Town House Farm accommodation bridge with the Sussex Belle Pullman. 10.10.2008 80151 runs round at Sheffield Park. 10.10.2008 672 Fenchurch runs south down the gradient from Ketches Halt. 10.10.2008 80151 runs round at Sheffield Park. On the extreme right a new notice gives instructions to Lineside Photographers. 10.10.2008 672 Fenchurch approaches Horsted Keynes with the Observation Car. 10.10.2008 80151 passes the PW hut north of Leamland Bridge. 10.10.2008 The Autumn Tints near Tremains foot crossing. 10.10.2008 The Autumn Tints near Tremains foot crossing. 10.10.2008 592 was in the workshops. Sheffield Park Shed 10.10.2008 65 and 1638 were being gently warmed outside Sheffield Park Shed, ready for service. 10.10.2008

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]]> Fri Oct 10 2008 Marshlink Line - Tour 6 - Snailham Halt (Closed) http://train.fotopic.net/c1590685.html Opened on 1 July 1907, Snailham Halt was frankly remote from any dwellings, or indeed any surfaced road. Not surprisingly it closed in 1959. Saturday 1 January 2005: Opened on 1 July 1907, Snailham Halt was frankly remote from any dwellings, or indeed any surfaced road. Not surprisingly it closed in 1959.

Opened on 1 July 1907, Snailham Halt was frankly remote from any dwellings, or indeed any surfaced road. Not surprisingly it closed in 1959. During the period when the line was double track the halt consisted of a platform on each line which could accommodate a single coach, together with a wooden shelter on each platform. There was no lighting. This view looks east towards Rye, and the position of the eastbound platform is marked by the hump on the side of the track adjacent to the crossing. The angle of the ramp down from the platform can also be seen in the distance. 20.09.2008 Changing angle but still looking east the replacement sleepers mark the position of the old westbound line, but there is no significant trace of the westbound platform. Photographs of Snailham Halt are very rare. 20.09.2008 Looking east from the site of Snailham Halt towards Rye. 20.09.2008 Looking west from Snailham Halt towards Hastings. 20.09.2008 The same view as the previous picture, but with a long lens. The overbridge beyond the hump in the track is an agricultural crossing at Lower Snailham Farm and not a public right of way. 20.09.2008 The former entrance to Snailham Halt is now an agricultural crossing and public footpath. This view looks south. 20.09.2008 Turning round and looking north across Brede Level (the land surrounding the River Brede) it becomes immediately obvious why the halt had no passengers. There is no dwelling for miles. 20.09.2008 Looking north over Snailham Crossing towards Brede Level. 20.09.2008 Turning round this view looks south up the steep hill leading down to the railway crossing and the site of Snailham Halt. This unmade lane is unsuitable for motor vehicles and road access is a substantial distance from the crossing. 20.09.2008 Part way up the unmade hill to the south this view looks back north, down to the crossing. Reaching this site on foot took a significant time and the walk back up the hill was even less welcome. It is amazing the station ever had any passengers. 20.09.2008 Near the top of Snailham Hill there is a view east towards a large wind farm near Winchelsea. 20.09.2008

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2005 Marshlink Line - Tour 5 - Winchelsea Station http://train.fotopic.net/c1588582.html Winchelsea Station was opened on 13 February 1851, but was unfortunately located on Brede Level (close to the River Brede) north of the town. Signs at the station advise passengers that the town is half a mile to the south east. The ancient town of Winchelsea is located on a small area of high ground and access to the town from the station involves a steep climb. Despite extensive efforts by local people to make the station very welcoming the service has been run down to the degree that it can only be described as a disgrace, especially since trains are required to slow to 20 mph as they pass over the level crossing. It is hard to see why they cannot stop. Saturday 1 January 2005: Winchelsea Station was opened on 13 February 1851, but was unfortunately located on Brede Level (close to the River Brede) north of the town. Signs at the station advise passengers that the town is half a mile to the south east. The ancient town of Winchelsea is located on a small area of high ground and access to the town from the station involves a steep climb. Despite extensive efforts by local people to make the station very welcoming the service has been run down to the degree that it can only be described as a disgrace, especially since trains are required to slow to 20 mph as they pass over the level crossing. It is hard to see why they cannot stop.

Winchelsea Station platform looking east as Turbostar 171728 travels westbound. The sign says Winchelsea, Ancient Town, Cinque Port; Winchelsea town is half a mile south east from the station. Therein lies the problem at this station. Instead of providing a good service and a transport link such as a mini-bus to stimulate traffic the station has been written off. Despite efforts by local people (look at the beautiful displays of flowers on the platform) Southern only allows a tiny proportion of trains to call at the station. 27.09.2008 A relic of past times, Winchelsea Station house stands on what was the westbound platform. The canopy can still be seen as can the door on to the platform. Part of the platform length still survives, but is covered in weeds and cannot be seen. The house has been converted into flats and was for sale at the time of the visit. 20.09.2008 Another shot of the excellent flower displays at Winchelsea Station, looking east, with the level crossing in the background. 20.09.2008 Turbostar 171729, travelling east towards Rye, enters Winchelsea Station. Note the station house in the background. In common with many stations on the line when double track was in situ the platforms were staggered. 27.09.2008 The level crossing east of Winchelsea Station, looking north. As usual a telephone box has been provided on the right; useful for calling a cab when you discover that there is no practicable train service. 20.09.2008 Looking east towards Rye at Winchelsea level crossing. There are no barriers at this crossing and in consequence trains are restricted to 20mph. The lamp on the right illuminates with a white light to confirm to the driver that the red flashing lights at the crossing are operating. 20.09.2008 Changing angle slightly and looking north east, the wall and trees mark the position of the former crossing keeper's cottage, which has been demolished without trace. There is an acute angle between southbound traffic and westbound trains at this crossing and the presence of this wall (as opposed to a chain link fence) is crazy as it severely restricts sight lines. There has already been an accident between a train and a car at this crossing. 27.09.2008 Winchelsea level crossing looking south towards the town, which is on the ridge in the distance. The station entrance is on the right. 20.09.2008 Changing angle slightly and looking to the right this is the entrance to Winchelsea Station. Vertical boards prevent passengers taking a short cut on to the platform from the level crossing. Unusually the entrance is within the area covered by the flashing lights. An inattentive passenger could come off the platform and turn right into the path of the train. 20.09.2008 A second view of the entrance to Winchelsea Station, showing the slope up to the platform. 20.09.2008 Looking west along Winchelsea Station platform from the level crossing. 20.09.2008 With red lights flashing to warn traffic, Turbostar 171728 approaches the level crossing with a westbound service. 27.09.2008 Pedestrians watch as Turbostar 171728 moves across the level crossing at 20mph and enters Winchelsea Station. The low speed restriction imposed for the crossing makes a nonsense of the suggestion that services could not pause at this station. 27.09.2008 Another shot of Winchelsea level crossing, looking east from the platform at Winchelsea Station, but this time without a train in shot. 20.09.2008 Widening the angle slightly, and still looking east, on the right is the indicator light that confirms to drivers that the flashing red lights are correctly illuminated to road traffic. Winchelsea Station 20.09.2008 As Turbostar 171729 travels eastbound towards the level crossing at Winchelsea Station, the camera catches the white light on the left of the train illuminated to indicate that the crossing lights are working. The well tended station platform is a stark contrast to the undergrowth on the left, which conceals the site of the former westbound line and a siding. 27.09.2008 Looking west along the platform at Winchelsea Station. The siding was on the far left, and a signal box stood just in front of the station house, at the end nearest to the camera. 27.09.2008 The huge service interval at Winchelsea Station makes the small wooden shelter wholly inadequate for adverse weather. This is the original shelter that was provided on what was then the eastbound platform, but when it was originally erected a small canopy was also provided. 20.09.2008 Further along the platform at Winchelsea Station and still looking west. The trees on the left that hide the station house mark the approximate position of the signal box. 20.09.2008 Turning round and looking east from the same point, down the platform at Winchelsea Station. The former westbound line was on the right, and, behind that, a siding. 20.09.2008 A general shot of Winchelsea Station platform, looking west. 27.09.2008 At the western end of Winchelsea Station what is assumed to be a locating lamp marks the end of the platform. 20.09.2008 The locating lamp is shown illuminated as Turbostar 171728 leaves the platform at Winchelsea Station with a westbound train. On the right of the train there was originally a short siding. 27.09.2008 A tiny relic of the past still exists at the western end of Winchelsea Station platform. A very small piece of the original passenger foot crossing between the platforms survives (arrowed). 27.09.2008 Winchelsea Station house looking west. The bushes beyond the house conceal the remains of the platform and occupy part of what was the westbound line. 20.09.2008 A second view of Winchelsea Station house shows the original door on to the westbound platform and part of the old canopy. The area needs a trim. 20.09.2008 The drive that approaches Winchelsea Station house, which is now private property. The house was for sale at the time of the visit. 20.09.2008 It was touching to see the efforts that the local community had made to improve the appearance of Winchelsea Station despite the exceptionally poor service. The small wooden shelter contained a display for visitors to read. 27.09.2008 A sign indicating the direction of travel is of little use if the trains do not stop. The apparatus cases behind the sign carried notices warning of rats. It might help if some effort was made to clear the undergrowth.... Winchelsea Station 20.09.2008 The milepost at Winchelsea Station. In common with others on the line it was in poor condition. 27.09.2008 Looking north from the platform at Winchelsea Station. A channel feeding the River Brede runs directly under the platform and line. 20.09.2008

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2005 A photographic tour of the Oxted to East Grinstead line http://train.fotopic.net/c1582059.html The main index page for the photographic tour of the Oxted to East Grinstead line. Thursday 1 January 1998: The main index page for the photographic tour of the Oxted to East Grinstead line.

Collections for the Oxted to East Grinstead line are available. Looking south, Turbostar 171730 crosses Oxted Viaduct with an Uckfield line service. 14.09.2008

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]]> Thu Jan 1 1998 Spa Valley Railway - Extension to Eridge http://train.fotopic.net/c1580736.html Contractors are currently clearing undergrowth and restoring the track north of Eridge for Spa Valley Railway use. Photos of the work undertaken in 2008 and 2009 are in this collection. Separate collections cover Forge Farm Crossing, the line to Birchden, and Groombridge Station. Another collection covers the period prior to 2008 when the Spa Valley line into Eridge was disused. Please follow the link from the main index page to view this historical collection. Tuesday 1 January 2008: Contractors are currently clearing undergrowth and restoring the track north of Eridge for Spa Valley Railway use. Photos of the work undertaken in 2008 and 2009 are in this collection. Separate collections cover Forge Farm Crossing, the line to Birchden, and Groombridge Station. Another collection covers the period prior to 2008 when the Spa Valley line into Eridge was disused. Please follow the link from the main index page to view this historical collection.

Network Rail has recently undertaken substantial lineside clearance, which has transformed the approach to Eridge. The old signal box has been revealed, although it is currently in sad condition. 02.03.2009 Amazingly the signalman's convenience was still standing within the undergrowth, although it may need some refurbishment... 02.03.2009 Eridge signal box, taken from a slightly different angle. It would be nice to see this box externally restored to enhance the historic features that should be part of a heritage railway. 02.03.2009 A wider view of Eridge signal box, which stands on the west side of the line, north of Platform 1. Although the box is on the Network Rail side of the line, safe access could be obtained from Platform 1 if restoration were possible. 02.03.2009 Looking north from Platforms 2 and 3 at Eridge Station, showing the dramatic improvement in the view following the lineside clearance. 02.03.2009 A wider shot from the end of Platform 3 at Eridge, looking north. Can anyone clarify how the Spa Valley points are to be operated when services start running to Eridge? 02.03.2009 Changing angle, this view looks north from the end of the Network Rail platform (Platform 1). It can be seen that the long siding on the right has been cleared of undergrowth. On the right, behind the fence, is an engineering area which is assumed still to be in Network Rail ownership. It is currently in an appalling state with much graffiti and rubbish in evidence. 02.03.2009 Looking north from Platform 1 at Eridge Station with a longer lens. The undergrowth has been cleared from around the old bracket signal and the milepost is revealed. 02.03.2009 Within the rubbish and undergrowth inside the engineering compound is this small hut, which was, perhaps, used by a shunter. Although it was not noticed at the time, when the picture was processed a face appears to be in the bottom left hand window. The local vandals clearly get everywhere.... 02.03.2009 Contractors are currently working to install services inside the refurbished Gents on the Spa Valley platform, and metal fences and a temporary access can be seen which are part of the works. The edge of the platform had been marked out, presumably ahead of some repair work. 02.03.2009 Looking through the arch at the southern end of Eridge Station it can be seen that new buffers have now been installed adjacent to the milepost. 02.03.2009 Looking down from the road bridge outside Eridge Station it can be seen that the Spa Valley track has been angled slightly to the left as an additional safety measure. 02.03.2009 A final view from the road bridge at Eridge Station, taken with a long lens, shows that the installation of the buffers has resulted in a length of abandoned track south of the new road bridge. 02.03.2009 Moving now to pictures taken in 2008, there has been a stunning transformation in the bay platform at Eridge. The bushes have been cleared and the track is being repaired. This view looks north from the buffers. This platform was originally Platform 4, but is currently called Platform 3. 14.09.2008 The contractors have marked sleepers in the bay platform that require replacement. 14.09.2008 Digging out of the rotten sleepers has commenced. 14.09.2008 Further up the bay platform new sleepers are already in situ. 14.09.2008 In order to remove this rotten sleeper the fishplates have been removed, clearly showing that all the joints have been lubricated. 14.09.2008 At the northern end of the bay platform the bushes have been removed revealing the points to the long siding. New sleepers have been installed in advance of the points. 14.09.2008 A closer view of the remains of the point mechanism. These points were presumably originally worked from the signal box to the north of the station. 14.09.2008 Looking north from the bay platform showing the cleared access to the Spa Valley running line (in the centre of the picture). 14.09.2008 Looking north with a longer lens it can be seen that the undergrowth on the long siding on the right is regrowing at an astonishing rate. Earlier pictures show this growth reduced to track level and it will clearly need some further attention. 14.09.2008 Looking south down the refurbished platform at Eridge from the northern end. 14.09.2008 The station signs on the Spa Valley platform have been removed leaving a rusty area on the otherwise refurbished support. 14.09.2008 Meanwhile various areas on the Spa Valley platform have been marked for repairs to the surface. 14.09.2008 Paint has been stripped from the wall of the Gents toilet ready for continuing refurbishment and repainting. 14.09.2008 Looking south from Eridge into the Spa Valley headshunt (on the left). The contractors have now cut the bushes back for part of the length. 14.09.2008 The removal of the bushes has exposed the milepost south of the station. 14.09.2008 South of the station a bridge carries a major road over the railway. This view looks south towards the current end of the Spa Valley line. 14.09.2008 Looking south with a longer lens it can be seen that no buffers have yet been installed in the headshunt, but a section of line has been removed just before the Spa Valley track terminates. The track has been in this condition for some time. 14.09.2008 Looking north towards Eridge from the road bridge with the Network Rail line on the left and the Spa Valley headshunt on the right. 14.09.2008 Changing angle slightly the former route into the original Platform 1 can be seen on the left. 14.09.2008 Looking from the other end of the road bridge it can be seen that the disused section of the bridge leading into the old Platform 4 (now Platform 3) is still obstructed by undergrowth. This bay platform is blocked at the southern end by an exit to the car park. 14.09.2008 Taken in July 2008, the following group of pictures shows that the contractors have finished preparing the Spa Valley Railway running line into Eridge Station. This view looks north on 29.07.2008 The view north from the Network Rail platform at Eridge, with the Spa Valley running line in the centre of the three tracks. The points that in previous times connected with the Network Rail line have now been removed. 29.07.2008 Looking north from Platform 1 the long siding can be seen on the right. The contractors have done no work there, and it is hoped to establish a safe working area that will allow SVR staff to undertake any necessary adjustments. 29.07.2008 Looking north from the Spa Valley platform at Eridge. The plain lining that replaced the former points is indicated by the blue bolts. 29.07.2008 Pulling back, this view shows the remaining points more clearly. 29.07.2008 Looking north from the end of the Spa Valley platform. An application of weedkiller on the long siding might well be an advantage as the undergrowth is already reappearing. 29.07.2008 Looking south down the Spa Valley platform from the same point. No work has yet been done on the bay platform (Platform 3). This will be a future project. Marks can just be seen on the platform indicating where the surface needs to be repaired. 29.07.2008 Looking towards the Spa Valley buildings from the Network Rail platform. Evidence of ongoing refurbishment is obvious. 29.07.2008 Having described the Network Rail buildings as tatty in January 2008 I feel obliged to record that they now have a nice new coat of paint. They have even painted the lamps and the surviving digital clock bracket! 29.07.2008 Looking south into the Spa Valley headshunt (on the left). The contractors are returning at a later stage to finish this area. Buffers will be installed just around the bend and presumably the trees will be cut back. 29.07.2008 The next group of pictures were taken on 22.06.2008 when contractors were clearing undergrowth and restoring the track north of Eridge for Spa Valley Railway use. The removal of the undergrowth has produced a dramatic change in the view (compare these pictures with the original collection covering 2003 - 2008) and the bracket signal and milepost have finally been revealed again. 22.06.2008 Looking north from Platform 1 at Eridge with a long lens. The Network Rail line is on the left, the Spa Valley Railway running line is in the centre of the picture and the SVR long siding on the right. Contractors are currently concentrating on bringing the SVR running line up to standard and cutting back the undergrowth. No work has been done on the track in the siding as yet. 22.06.2008 Looking north from Platform 1 at Eridge. Some new sleepers have been delivered and placed on the siding. 22.06.2008 Looking north from Platform 1 at Eridge and reducing the zoom the length of the siding on the right can be seen. 22.06.2008 Looking north from Platform 2 at Eridge with a long lens. The left hand crossover pointing towards the Network Rail line on the left will be removed and replaced by plain track. The right hand crossover leads to the long siding which extends around the bend, but the line is currently difficult to see in the remaining grass and weeds. Looking north from Platform 2 at Eridge. New sleepers are on the siding, and the points leading towards the bottom of the picture serve Platform 3, which is currently a bay platform. 22.06.2008 Pulling back slightly it can be seen that points at the northern end of the bay platform (Platform 3) give access to the SVR running line and the siding on the right. 22.06.2008

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]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 Oxted to East Grinstead - Crowhurst Junction and Lingfield Intermediate signal box (both closed) http://train.fotopic.net/c1580189.html Railways came to this area relatively late, and it was not until 10 March 1884 that the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway Company opened the line that ran from Oxted to East Grinstead. Subsequently a junction was created south of Hurst Green (then a simple railway halt taking a maximum of two carriages), and a line was constructed from the Hurst Green junction south through Edenbridge (called Edenbridge Town from 1 May 1896), Hever, Cowden and Ashurst to join with the existing line from East Grinstead through Withyham to Tunbridge Wells. This line opened to passengers on 1 October 1888 and is covered in a separate collection. PLEASE NOTE: Photos in this section were taken from safe positions to which the public have access. Please remember that a long lens can give a false impression of where the picture was taken. Do NOT trespass on any railway. Thursday 1 January 1998: Railways came to this area relatively late, and it was not until 10 March 1884 that the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway Company opened the line that ran from Oxted to East Grinstead. Subsequently a junction was created south of Hurst Green (then a simple railway halt taking a maximum of two carriages), and a line was constructed from the Hurst Green junction south through Edenbridge (called Edenbridge Town from 1 May 1896), Hever, Cowden and Ashurst to join with the existing line from East Grinstead through Withyham to Tunbridge Wells. This line opened to passengers on 1 October 1888 and is covered in a separate collection. PLEASE NOTE: Photos in this section were taken from safe positions to which the public have access. Please remember that a long lens can give a false impression of where the picture was taken. Do NOT trespass on any railway.

South of Hurst Green Junction the Oxted to East Grinstead line runs through open countryside for some distance en route to Lingfield Station. A northbound train had just passed leaving a safe interval to take this shot looking north towards Hurst Green from the public foot crossing at Sunt Farm. 14.09.2008 The same view but with a long lens shows the northbound train curving left towards Hurst Green. The train is actually about three quarters of a mile away but the lens makes the straight section of track appear much shorter than is actually the case. 14.09.2008 This view looks south from the Sunt Farm foot crossing. In the very far distance a bridge can just be seen which carries the line from Redhill to Tonbridge. 14.09.2008 The same view south but with a much longer lens. The bridge carrying the Redhill to Tonbridge line can be seen more clearly. Nearest the camera is a farm crossing, and just beyond the crossing is the site of Crowhurst Junction, where a spur branched left towards Tonbridge. Most services over the spur ceased in June 1955, but it was subsequently used by diverted trains for some years. 14.09.2008 The same view but from a slightly different angle. Just beyond the farm crossing and before the Whistle sign is an area of raised ballast which marks the point where the spur left the Oxted line and curved away to the left. 14.09.2008 Moving now to the authorised farm crossing seen in the previous picture, this view looks north towards Hurst Green. 14.09.2008 Taken from the authorised farm crossing, this is the site of Crowhurst Junction. The line to Tonbridge turned left in front of the Whistle sign. It can be seen that the line to East Grinstead drops under the Redhill to Tonbridge line, and in reality the gradient up to the Tonbridge line on the spur was quite slight. 14.09.2008 Changing angle slightly this view of the western side of the line shows the site of Crowhurst Junction signal box which stood on the extreme right. It has been demolished without trace; only a pile of ballast remains. 14.09.2008 The presence of the spur created a triangle of land between the three lines which was effectively cut off, and which can still clearly be seen on Google Earth. Access to this area was provided by a farm crossing over the now disused spur. This gate marks the position of the crossing. 14.09.2008 Adjacent to the disused crossing is this fragment of a broken sign. It probably said something like Southern Railway, Beware of Trains. 14.09.2008 Looking past the broken sign, this undergrowth conceals the East Grinstead to Oxted line, and if cut down the old junction would be revealed. There was an old sign within the bushes which was assumed to be related to the railway, but it was impossible to find an angle to view it. 14.09.2008 Gaining access to the triangle is challenging owing to undergrowth, but once inside a pleasant disused field is revealed. To the south at the top of the picture the Rehill to Tonbridge embankment crosses from right to left. On the right of the picture is the Oxted to East Grinstead embankment, and on the left of the picture the disused spur. 14.09.2008 Changing camera angle slightly this is the embankment of the disused spur viewed from the west as it climbs gently to the Tonbridge line. 14.09.2008 Emerging from the triangle again this is the eastern side of the spur curving away until it joins the Tonbridge line on the extreme left of the picture. Access to the actual old track bed was totally impossible as the embankment is a solid mass of trees and undergrowth. 14.09.2008 Looking down at the same point the old drainage channel from the embankment can still be seen, marking the boundary between the field and the former railway. 14.09.2008 South of the Redhill to Tonbridge bridge is an impressive high brick arch bridge west of Oldhouse Farm. The top of this bridge carries a public footpath and examination of maps suggests that this was once the main route from nearby rural communities leading west towards Crowhurst Church and the adjacent small village. 14.09.2008 Looking north from Oldhouse Farm accommodation bridge towards the Redhill to Tonbridge line bridge. 14.09.2008 The same view as the previous picture, but with a longer lens. Crowhurst Junction was beyond the bridge. As is often the case the junction was in fact some distance from the village from which it got it's name. 14.09.2008 Looking south from Oldhouse Farm accommodation bridge towards Chellows Farm Bridge. 14.09.2008 Taken from the field adjacent to Oldhouse Farm accommodation bridge this view looks south. The railway and the bridge in the previous picture are concealed by the trees on the right, but the area is dominated by the huge chimney of the disused Crowhurst Brick and Tile Works. The works had two private sidings. 14.09.2008 A closer view of the huge chimney at Crowhurst Brick and Tile Works, looking east. The camera is horizontal, but the poles are not vertical!! The works ceased production in 1980. Outside the works stood Lingfield Intermediate signal box, and two sidings entered the works through a white gate to the north. The chimney can be seen for miles around, but the site is private and sealed off. There are dangerous deep water filled pits within the disused site. 14.09.2008 Views of the site are restricted, but some of the buildings can be seen in this shot. A private siding ran in front of the large building nearest to the camera, with another siding beyond the distant sheds. The main railway line is within the distant trees on the far (eastern) side of the buildings. Even with a long lens the view was too restricted to trace any relic of the railway. 14.09.2008 Returning to Chellows Farm Bridge this view looks south in the direction of Lingfield Station. In the bottom right hand corner of the picture the private siding branched off to the right and ran south through a gate into Crowhurst Brick and Tile Works. There is absolutely no trace of the siding, which ceased to carry any traffic a long time before the works closed. 11.05.2008 Changing angle slightly and looking south with a longer lens the flat area on the right almost overgrown by trees marks the site of Lingfield Intermediate signal box, which has been demolished without trace. 11.05.2008 Looking south from Chellows Farm Bridge with a very long lens, the remains of an accommodation bridge east of Bowerland Farm can just be seen. This bridge led to the southern end of the brick works. In the far distance the track starts to curve towards Lingfield Station. 11.05.2008 Looking north from Chellows Farm Bridge the track leads away towards Hurst Green. 11.05.2008 This second view north is also taken from Chellows Farm Bridge, but with a very long lens. The picture shows a scene which cannot be distinguished in the previous photo. The tall brick arch bridge at Oldhouse Farm is nearest to the camera, and beyond it a flat girder bridge carries the Tonbridge to Redhill line over this route. 11.05.2008

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]]> Thu Jan 1 1998 Marshlink Line - Tour No.10 - Hastings Station http://train.fotopic.net/c1577817.html Hastings Station was opened on 13 February 1851, and is a major station with services extending to London via Tunbridge Wells, to London via Eastbourne and Haywards Heath, to Brighton, and via the Marshlink Line to Ashford International. Hastings is the former terminus of the Marshlink Line, but services now venture further west. However the photographic tour does not! Hastings is a shadow of the former station, which had extensive goods facilities and a different arrangement of platforms. Much of the area occupied by the former station has been redeveloped. Saturday 1 January 2005: Hastings Station was opened on 13 February 1851, and is a major station with services extending to London via Tunbridge Wells, to London via Eastbourne and Haywards Heath, to Brighton, and via the Marshlink Line to Ashford International. Hastings is the former terminus of the Marshlink Line, but services now venture further west. However the photographic tour does not! Hastings is a shadow of the former station, which had extensive goods facilities and a different arrangement of platforms. Much of the area occupied by the former station has been redeveloped.

Hastings Station is a shadow of it's former self. This view looks east towards the western end of the station. The 1929 map shows that on the left, behind the trees, there was formerly an engine shed and turntable. On the right the former westbound section of Platform 1 no longer exists, but when first built tracks led through this gap into a vast area occupied by platforms and sidings. A new booking hall, bus facility and car park now occupy this site. The green glass of the booking hall can be seen on the right of the photo. 04.10.2005 Hastings Station looking west from the eastern end. The area of the engine shed is lost in the trees on the right behind the train in Platform 4. To the left of the picture the disused land was formerly occupied by a large number of sidings and a goods shed. 04.10.2005 Looking east from the bridge at the eastern end of Hastings Station. The main lines extend east towards Ore Station. On the right of the photo the truncated siding originally extended into a gas works with several sidings. On the left of the picture the site of former sidings at the station is obvious, and in the distance the very limited carriage sidings can be seen. The limited space for stock to be held at Hastings was the original justification for the facilities at Ore, but these have since closed. 04.10.2005 Hastings signal box, situated at the eastern end of the station on the northern side of the line. The box controls an odd mix of colour light and semaphore signals. 01.07.2005 Unit 377447 heads east from Hastings Station under the eastern road bridge, heading for Ore Station, where it will reverse in the headshunt at the end of the electrified line. 01.07.2005 Hastings Station looking west along the platforms. On the extreme left is a non-electrified siding. In 2005, when this picture was taken, Marshline services terminated in the bay platform at Hastings and did not venture further west. From the left are a terminating Turbostar Marshlink train waiting to return to Ashford; a westbound Southern coastal train; an eastbound Southern train en route for the end of the electrified line at Ore; and a terminating Charing Cross to Hastings train waiting to leave the station westbound. 01.07.2005 Moving down the platform, Turbostar 171725 waits to depart with an Ashford Marshlink train. Trains can only enter this bay from the east, so it is hard to see the benefit of the third rail provided. The only services that approach from the east are DMUs (excluding electric trains that have already reversed at Ore to travel through the station westbound). 01.07.2005 377107 waits to depart from Platform 2 with a Southern coastal service which has originated from Ore. 01.07.2005 Turning round and looking east, this is a general view of the eastern end of Hastings Station, complete with semaphore signals. Colour light signals are at the western end of the platform. The goods yard was behind the fence on the extreme right. The seagull just wanted to get into the picture.... 01.07.2005 Now at the western end of the station 375715 waits to depart westbound form Platform 4 with a Hastings to Charing Cross service. Terminating services usually use this platform. Behind the train the site of the old engine shed is lost in undergrowth. 01.07.2005 Looking east from the western end of Hastings Station. On the right, behind the barrier, is the former western end of Platform 1, which was truncated when a ground level path was built to the new ticket office on the right (behind the bush). A westbound coastal service waits at Platform 2, and on the left the driver walks up to the cab of a terminated train that will depart west from Platform 4 for London Charing Cross. 01.07.2005 Turning round and looking west from the western end of Hastings Station towards Hastings Tunnel, which is 788 yards in length. A signal box originally stood on the left, with sidings behind it leading through the disused arch on the left. The empty arch on the right originally led to a turntable and sidings. St Leonards Warrior Square Station is at the far end of the tunnel, and the shadow of a train can just be seen through the tunnel. 01.07.2005 A general view looking east towards Hastings Station, with the town rising on the ridge behind. The green glass building on the right is the new booking office, and a glass-sided connection leads from it to the platform. The installation of this facility blocked the western end of Platform 1, and converted it into a bay platform facing Ashford. The booking office area was formerly platforms and sidings. 04.10.2005 A westbound train bound for London Charing Cross heads into Hastings Tunnel. The trees on the right conceal an area formerly occupied by a turntable. 04.10.2005 A slightly wider shot of the eastern portal of Hastings Tunnel. The gray apparatus cases on the left of the picture mark the line of a siding which discharged trains westwards and joined the main line just beyond the existing cross-over. 04.10.2005

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2005 Marshlink Line - Tour 1 - Ashford Station (now Ashford International) http://train.fotopic.net/c1577435.html Ashford Station was opened on 1 December 1842, and was renamed Ashford International on 28 February 1996. It is a major junction in the South East railway network with services extending to London, Dover, Ramsgate, Margate and Canterbury West, plus, of course, the Marshlink Line, which must be considered one of the lesser sources of passenger traffic at the station. A small number of pictures of Ashford Station are included for completeness as the northern terminus of the Marshlink Line. Saturday 1 January 2005: Ashford Station was opened on 1 December 1842, and was renamed Ashford International on 28 February 1996. It is a major junction in the South East railway network with services extending to London, Dover, Ramsgate, Margate and Canterbury West, plus, of course, the Marshlink Line, which must be considered one of the lesser sources of passenger traffic at the station. A small number of pictures of Ashford Station are included for completeness as the northern terminus of the Marshlink Line.

Turbostar 171725 enters Ashford International with a Marshlink service from Hastings on 01.07.2005. There are no bay platforms at Ashford for terminating trains, but the long platforms are sub-divided into sections A, B and C. The two car Turbostar occupies only section 1C of the platform whilst turning round. Different day, same unit. Turbostar 171725 waits in Platform 1C at Ashford International ready to depart east for Hastings. The rear of a second train can just be seen. This is a London bound service waiting to depart west from Platform 1A/B. This arrangement achieves very efficient use of the platforms. 04.10.2005 Looking east from the end of Platforms 1 and 2 at Ashford International. The lines running straight away from the camera are en route to Folkestone, with the Marshlink line turning sharp right on the extreme right of the picture (see also next photo). The lines on the left of the station are shown in subsequent pictures. 01.07.2005 It is quite difficult to find a viewpoint showing the Marshlink line leaving Ashford International as the platforms are staggered and the Marshlink line turns sharp right at the eastern end of the station. This shot shows sidings to the right, with the Marshlink line to the left of the overhead gantries, slightly concealed by the stairs from the footbridge. In the foreground are the two Channel Tunnel platforms, to which access was not available at the time of my visit. 01.07.2005 Moving the camera to the left and looking east, this is the departing main line to Folkestone, with a depot in the background. Note the speed limit signs also show KMH to cater for Channel Tunnel trains which may use the platform. 01.07.2005